When Union Health Foundation granted funds for the purchase of a TEG 6s machine—a cutting-edge blood analysis system—it marked a turning point for the cardiovascular surgical team, transforming patient care with one strategic investment.
The TEG 6s (Thromboelastography) machine analyzes how blood clots in real time—measuring not just how fast, but how well a clot forms and holds. That may sound technical, but its implications are powerful. This insight allows surgical teams to tailor treatment with precision, which is especially critical during high-risk procedures like open-heart surgery.
“Before the TEG 6s, we had to make our best clinical guess,” explained Dr. Charles Cochran, Union Health’s Chief Anesthesiologist, who helped implement the machine in the cardiovascular operating rooms. “We’d often give multiple blood products—red blood cells, plasma, platelets—just to cover our bases. Now, we can individualize each patient’s care based on exactly what their body needs—no more, no less. That means safer care, better outcomes and smarter use of our hospital’s resources.”
Since its arrival, the TEG 6s has had a swift and measurable impact—most notably by helping physicians avoid unnecessary transfusions. One key advantage is its ability to detect residual heparin, a medication used during surgery to prevent clotting. It’s reversal can now be confirmed with more accurate testing, decreasing the need for broad use of blood products. Real-time results let teams act fast and precisely—cutting transfusions, shortening hospital stays, and conserving vital blood supplies.
That precision matters. Blood products are costly, limited and not without risk. “Every time you give blood, you’re essentially doing a mini organ transplant,” said Dr. Cochran. “The TEG 6s helps us ensure we only use blood products when absolutely necessary.”
The benefits go beyond the operating room. Surgeons can now quickly determine if patients—like those on blood thinners—are safe for urgent procedures, reducing wait times from days to hours.
“We’ve seen real savings in cost and time—but more importantly, our patients are benefiting,” said Dr. Cochran. “The Foundation’s support changed the way we practice cardiovascular surgery and elevated patient care overnight.”
The Foundation’s investment is inspiring interest across the hospital, from trauma to the ICU. What began with one machine is now expanding system-wide—proof that philanthropy drives lasting change. With your support, Union Health isn’t just keeping up with the future of medicine—we’re helping define it.