Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 1981; 29(2): 124-126
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1023459
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Intrapleural Instillation of Streptokinase Effects on Systemic Fibrinolysis

E. Berglin W-O, R. Ekroth, A. -C. Teger-Nilsson, G. William-Olsson
  • Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery and Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sahlgrenska Sjukhuset, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
Further Information

Publication History

1980

Publication Date:
19 March 2008 (online)

Summary

Ten consecutive patients aged 25 to 75 with postoperative empyema or hemothorax conventionally treated with drainage without sufficient effect were given intrapleural instillations of streptokinase (Kabikinase®, 250.000 IE) for 4 hours[1]). The effects on systemic fibrinolysis were studied. Venous blood samples for determination of fibrinolytic activity on fibrin plates, plasminogen,α2-antiplasmin, α2-macroglobulin fibrinogen, fibrin(ogen) degradation products (FDP) and thrombin time were taken before instillation, after instillation and then after 24 hours. Preinstillation values were compared to the values 4 and 24 hours after instillation with Student's paired t-test. There were no differences in fibrinolytic activity, α2-macroglobulin and thrombin time. There was a slight increase in plasminogen, α2-antiplasmin and fibrinogen, probably due to an acute phase reaction. Fibrin degradation products showed an increase with border line significance. These changes are not consistent with generalized fibrinolysis, and it is concluded that intrapleural instillations of streptokinase can be given safely in the early posttraumatic or postoperative period.

1 Kabi AB, Stockholm, Sweden

1 Kabi AB, Stockholm, Sweden