Detection of abnormal platelet functions with an in vitro model of primary haemostasis.

A new technique, which simulates primary haemostasis in vitro was tested using blood from control persons and from patients with a defined abnormality of primary haemostasis. The device allows the reproducible measurement of in vitro bleeding time and volume in small samples of whole blood. Inhibition of platelet adhesion and aggregation can very sensitively be detected with the new technique, which allows its possible use in clinical or pharmacological applications.