Lecture Series: Viscoelastic Testing – A Game Changer in Patient Blood Management

In this episode, guest Dr. Max Hershkop, a Clinical Pathology resident at NYU Langone Hospital–Long Island, breaks down how whole-blood viscoelastic assays (TEG, ROTEM, Quantra) can sharpen transfusion decisions in real time. We contrast these tools with conventional plasma tests, and dive into where they help most—as well as where evidence is limited or shows no benefit—highlighting evidence for targeted therapy (cryoprecipitate, platelets, antifibrinolytics) and reductions in unnecessary transfusions. Dr. Hershkop also tackles the challenges (cost, standardization, workflow/Point-of-Care Testing placement) and practical steps to implement PBM-aligned algorithms. A concise, bedside-focused guide to using data—not guesswork—to manage bleeding and improve outcomes. Learn more at bbanys.org.