Unraveling Spontaneous HIT in Knee Surgeries

This chapter explores the unexpected link between spontaneous heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) and knee replacement surgeries, highlighting the presence of PF4-heparin antibodies in a segment of the population. It delves into the molecular intricacies of heparin's interaction within the coagulation cascade, differentiating between unfractionated and low molecular weight heparins. The discussion also addresses potential misclassifications of thrombocytopenia post-surgery and the immunological mechanisms involved, including the effects of negatively charged molecules.