Dear Gary, thank you for your question. I need to know your platelet count to accurately answer your question. I assume that your low platelet count has been investigated by a physician, but if not, you certainly need an evaluation. Platelets can be destroyed during open heart surgery during transit through the cardiopulmonary bypass machine, so an adequate platelet count is a necessity for a safe, succesful surgery. I hope you find this information useful.
Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.
Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies. Please feel free to write back with additional questions. The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem. Information contained within this forum is intended solely for general educational purposes and is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice relative to your specific medical condition or question. Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies.