Mechanical circulatory support is associated with loss of platelet receptors glycoprotein Ibα and glycoprotein VI

It’s well known that VAD and ECMO are associated with bleeding and decreased platelet activity.  This study investigated whether loss of platelet receptors occurred in 21 VAD patients and 20 ECMO patients. They found significantly reduced surface receptors (GPIbα and GPVI) in VAD and ECMO patients compared to healthy donors.  T he authors concluded that VAD and ECMO may contribute to ablated platelet adhesion/activation and limit thrombus formation under high/pathological shear conditions.  Reduced platelet receptors in ECMO patients contribute to the bleeding issues on top of the platelet count reduction.