Comparative study between an automated mechanical method and a semiautomated optical method for the measurement of hemostasis tests.

Abstract

Introduction: The study of hemostasis includes global screening tests such as activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin time (PT). APTT and PT can be measured through a wide variety of coagulometers. These coagulometers can be divided into two major groups: those that use optical Clot detection and those that use electromechanical detection. Objectives: To compare a mechanical method and an optical method to process APTT and PT, and to analyze whether the results reported are equivalent between both methods in a laboratory of a maternal and child hospital. Materials and methods: Blood samples were randomly selected for the analysis of APTT and PT, respectively. Two coagulometers were used: STA Satellite MAX Stago (automated mechanical method) and Coatron X Series TECO (semi-automated optical method). Results: Based on statistical analysis using Student’s t-test, the results obtained with both types of coagulometer were similar. The interpretation of Pearson correlation values indicated a strong correlation between both methods, with values ranging between 0.5 and 1.0. Conclusions: The statistical analysis of the data obtained showed that the equipments did not exhibit statistically significant differences in the APTT and PT results; therefore, both methods can be used in the laboratory. The incorporation of the semi-automated Coatron X Series TECO equipment will allow it to be used as a ‘backup’ in the laboratory, both during on-call shifts and in daily routine work.