Activity of Megakaryocytes in the Postoperative State

Simultaneous bone marrow smears and platelet counts on the peripheral blood were made preoperatively and on the third and the tenth days after operation in 14 patients. Observations of the activity of the megakaryocytes of the bone marrow on the third day were inconclusive and require further observation. There was, however, a significant increase in activity on the tenth day.

It is postulated that the thrombocytosis which occurs on the tenth postoperative day is the result of increased activity of the megakaryocytes of the bone marrow induced by the attempt of the body to replenish depleted platelet reserves.