In 207 consecutive randomized women undergoing cesarean section, of whom 104 received 3 X 5000 IE unfractionated heparin and 103 3 X 500 ml hydroxyethylstarch 6% 0.62, the frequency of deep vein thrombosis was evaluated with a non-invasive diagnostic technique-impedance plethysmography. 5.9% of the patients in the hydroxyethylstarch group and 7.8% in the heparin-group developed deep vein thrombosis. Activation of blood coagulation at cesarean section results in an increasing of factor VIIIR:Ag, Fibrinogen and Reptilase clotting time. Hydroxyethylstarch 6% 0.62 produces minor abnormalities of coagulation test results. After 1500 ml infusions HES the following effects were noted: 1. Factor VIIIR:Ag fell by about 20%, a greater decrease than could be explained simply by hemodilution. 2. Reptilase clotting times shortened without a different increase in fibrin activation products (resulting in an increased lysability of the thrombus). 3. Plasma fibrinogen decreased by approximately 7% due to hemodilution caused by plasma volume expansion. For patients with a low risk of deep vein thrombosis (Cesarean section) HES has an excellent safety record in doses not exceeding 1500 ml/24 h.

Blood Coagulation Tests↗

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[Ophthalmology and standardization].

The standards are the references for quality and safety of materials, instruments and devices in ophtalmological use. The French standardisation association, "Association Française de Normalisation" (AFNOR), drafts his standards in connection with the concerned professionals. The ophthalmologists are concerned by standards of diagnostic and therapeutic instruments, intraocular and orbital implants, contact lenses, spectacle frames and glasses, and ocular protectors.

Contact Lenses↗

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