Hemostasis in plastic surgical patients.

Every surgeon should be acutely cognizant of the importance of the evaluation and treatment of bleeding abnormalities. Dependence upon a normal platelet and clotting system is a requirement for surgery. Significant emphasis should always be placed on a detailed history and physical examination. Routine laboratory evaluations should be regarded as a screening method and be augmented by suspicion raised during the history and physical examination. The importance of a basic understanding of hemostasis and the correction of abnormalities in hemostasis is essential to the practicing surgeon.