The Function of Heparin in Clot Prevention - Medical Illustration, Human Anatomy Drawing
This exhibit features two sets of images comparing the formation and expansion of a thrombus in a patient with and without the presence of Heparin in the system. The first set of images features three large cut-away views of a generic vessel. The first image shows normal bloodflow through the vessel. The second shows the development of a small clot on the inner wall of the vessel. The third image shows a significant expansion of the clot as fibrin and other clotting factors are attracted to the existing clot. Text describes how this clot continues to expand as additional clotting factors are attracted to the clot. The second set of images is very similar. Again, three cut-away views of a vessel with the first image showing normal bloodflow. The second image shows a small clot, but also bright blue dots are shown flowing through the blood representing the presence of Heparin in this patient. The third image shows that Heparin( Blue) has coated the small existing clot preventing the binding of additional clotting factors. Text explains that Heparin is used to prevent the formation or expansion of blood clots but does not break down or eliminate any existing clots.