Practice Location

2305 S HIGHWAY 65 BLDG A
MARSHALL, MO 65340-3702

Phone: (660) 886-6692

What does ROY ELFRINK research?

Dr. Elfrink studies the effects of heparin, a commonly used blood thinner, particularly in patients who have developed antibodies against it. These antibodies can lead to serious complications, like dangerous blood clots. His research investigates how reintroducing heparin can be safely managed, exploring different preventive measures to minimize risks during surgeries. He evaluates how treatments, such as aspirin or dipyridamole, can alter outcomes for those patients, making his findings relevant for both healthcare providers and patients who have had adverse reactions to heparin.

Key findings

  • In a study of 13 patients, three experienced serious complications, including blood clots, after receiving heparin without preventive medication.
  • Nine patients who received heparin with either aspirin or dipyridamole before surgery did not suffer major complications, indicating the effectiveness of these preventative treatments.
  • The research highlights that pre-treatment can lead to a safer experience for patients with heparin-associated antibodies.

Frequently asked questions

Does Dr. Elfrink study blood clots caused by heparin?
Yes, Dr. Elfrink's research specifically examines the effects of heparin in patients who have developed antibodies that can lead to blood clots.
What treatments has Dr. Elfrink researched for patients with heparin reactions?
He has researched how taking aspirin or dipyridamole before receiving heparin can help prevent serious complications in patients with past reactions.
Is Dr. Elfrink's work relevant for patients undergoing surgery?
Yes, his findings are particularly relevant for surgical patients with a history of heparin reactions, guiding safer treatment options.

Publications in plain English

Reexposure to heparin of patients with heparin-associated antibodies.

1989

Journal of vascular surgery

Laster J, Elfrink R, Silver D

Plain English
This study looked at the effects of giving heparin to patients who had previously developed antibodies against it, which can cause dangerous blood clots. Out of four patients who received heparin without any medication to prevent complications, three experienced serious issues, including blood clots. In contrast, nine patients who were given aspirin or dipyridamole before receiving heparin during various surgeries had a drop in their platelet counts but did not suffer any major complications. Who this helps: This research is valuable for patients with a history of heparin reactions and their doctors.

PubMed

Frequent Co-Authors

J Laster D Silver

Physician data sourced from the NPPES NPI Registry . Publication data from PubMed . Plain-English summaries generated by AI. Not medical advice.