Platelet transfusion for surgery in the presence of polycythemia vera.

Surgery in the presence of uncontrolled polycythemia vera is associated with a high incidence of perioperative hemorrhage and postoperative venous thromboses. Control prior to surgery reduces the frequency of perioperative complications. A 73-year-old women suffering from polycythemia vera was scheduled for subtotal gastrectomy. Her platelet count before surgery was slightly elevated but bleeding time was prolonged. To manage the current case of polycythemia vera, hydroxyurea was effective for the control of hematocrit and transfusion of platelet concentrates was effective for hemostasis.