Studies on Clot Tensile Strength^[*]

Summary

1. A technique is described for measuring the tensile strength of plasma clots.

2. Platelet-induced clot retraction brings about a marked increase in clot tensile strength.

3. Normal platelet levels are associated with maximal clot tensile strength. Both high and low levels of platelets are associated with reduced clot tensile strength.

^* This investigation was supported by National Institutes of Health Grant HE 0-4544 and by grants from the San Mateo and Santa Clara County Heart Associations.

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