Medical Emergencies · single question
What is the minimum platelet count acceptable for DENTAL SURGERY?
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Correct answer: A. 50,000 cells/μL
Normal platelet count: 150,000–400,000/μL. For routine dental procedures including extractions: minimum acceptable platelet count is 50,000/μL. Below 50,000/μL, there is significant risk of uncontrolled bleeding. Below 20,000/μL (thrombocytopenic purpura range), spontaneous bleeding and severe surgical bleeding risk. For invasive procedures, consultation with a hematologist is recommended when counts are near 50,000.
- A. Incorrect. 10,000/μL is severely thrombocytopenic — spontaneous bleeding and life-threatening surgical hemorrhage risk. Dental surgery is absolutely contraindicated.
- B. CORRECT. 50,000/μL is the accepted minimum platelet count for dental surgery. With proper precautions and local hemostatic measures, dental procedures can proceed.
- C. Incorrect. 100,000/μL is a conservative threshold used in some institutions, but the standard accepted minimum is 50,000/μL for routine dental surgery.
- D. Incorrect. 150,000/μL is the NORMAL minimum platelet count — while ideal, surgery can safely proceed at counts as low as 50,000/μL.
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