Bleeding History in a Child Undergoing Surgery

Spero R. Cataland, MD, and Eric H. Kraut, MD

Ohio State University


I. HISTORY

Patient Presentation

A 10-year-old Caucasian male is to undergo an elective tonsillectomy. The pre-operative history describes significant bleeding after a recent tooth extraction. The mother reports that the bleeding occurred several hours after the tooth extraction, after they had returned home from the dentist’s office.

What additional questions regarding the patient’s history would be important to determine if the patient has an underlying coagulopathy?

Is there a history of bleeding after surgery or injuries?
Does the patient suffer from recurrent infections?
Was he taking any medication at the time of his dental extraction, and is he taking any now?
Is there a family history of bleeding disorders?
Is there a history of significant weight loss?

 

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