A randomized and blinded comparison of three bleeding time techniques: the Ivy method, and the Simplate II method in two directions.

We compared the Ivy bleeding time method and two alternatives of the Simplate II method (incisions in horizontal and vertical direction) with each other, with regard to the sensitivity, the specificity, the costs and the burden for the patient. In the aspirin study an aspirin-induced bleeding defect was used. Seventy-two healthy volunteers were randomized to receive either 500 mg acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) or a placebo. Double blinding was maintained throughout the study. In the anticoagulation study 62 patients participated, who received oral anticoagulants (OAC) for various reasons. All participants received two bleeding time methods. The burden for the participants of each method was screened by a small standard questionnaire. The differences in sensitivity and specificity between the three methods proved minimal. The Ivy method was more often preferred by the participants than the Simplate methods. Since a choice on the basis of sensitivity and specificity appears not possible, we prefer the Ivy method because of lower costs and less burden.