657 A Retrospective Cost Analysis of Group and Save Samples Performed Prior To Vascular Procedures

Abstract

Abstract Aim To assess if routine group and save is indicated prior to all vascular procedures. Method A retrospective review of all patients who were admitted to vascular ward between 1st to 30th June 2020 was performed using our hospital database. The following data was retrieved: admission diagnosis, preoperative haemoglobin, number, and type of vascular surgeries performed, number of G&S sent and total number requiring transfusion. Results Total 81 patients were admitted, all had a G&S on arrival with routine bloods. All preoperative patients need 2 G&S prior to surgery as per trust policy.69 patients underwent surgery.111G&S were processed.51 patients had 1 G&S on admission as they had a previous sample.28 patients had 2 G&S either because they had no previous records or had postoperative complications.2 patients required multiple transfusions so had >3 G&S each. 8 out of 81 patients needed peri-operative blood transfusion. 7 of them had undergone limb or toe amputations and 1 patient had ruptured AAA. The cost of single G&S sample is £30.8. Patients undergoing angioplasty, bypass, carotid endarterectomy (n = 46) did not require transfusion, but the expenditure incurred by performing g&s in these patients was £1570.8 Conclusions Peri-operative blood transfusion rates were 9.8%. Judicious use of G&S could have saved £1570.8 to the trust. Rationalising preoperative G&S policy would lead to substantial financial savings.