Quick Reference: Thromboelastography (TEG)

The TEG analyzer automatically records the visco-elastic changes in a sample of whole blood, plasma or platelet-rich plasma as the sample clots, retracts and/or lyses. The resultant profile is a measure of the kinetics of clot formation and dissolution of clot quality (the ability to perform the work of coagulation). Because the TEG system monitors shear elasticity (a physical property), it is sensitive to all the interacting cellular and plasmatic components in the blood that may affect the rate or structure of a clotting sample and its breakdown. The overall profile can be qualitatively or quantitatively interpreted in terms of the hypo, normal or hypercoagulable state of the sample and the degree of lysis.

• R or R-Time:
  (Reaction Time):  The time from when the sample is put into the TEG Analyzer
  until the first sign of clot formation (amplitude of 2 mm) is reached.
• K or K-time: 
  The time from the R to a fixed level of clot firmness (amplitude of 20 mm) is
  reached.
• Angle (α): 
  The rate of clot growth.
• MA (Maximum
  Amplitude): 
   MA measures the strength of the clot.
• G: 
  Measurement of clot firmness.
• CI (Coagulation
  Index): 
  Describes the patient’s overall coagulation.