“To MAP or not to MAP; is that the question?” The role of platelet function tests in the perioperative management of patients on antiplatelet therapy.

Summary: Platelets aggregate at the site of ruptured atherosclerotic plaques and have a key role in the pathophysiology of occlusive vascular events. Antiplatelet agents (APA) have proven efficacy in the primary and secondary prevention of ischaemic heart and cerebrovascular disease. The peri-operative management of patients taking such drugs is increasingly challenging and necessitates consideration of the risk of thrombosis following cessation of APA versus that of haemorrhage through continuation. We discuss the current and future role of platelet function tests in optimising clinical management of patients taking APA at the time of surgery. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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