Intraoperative Platelet Transfusion Research Articles

Anesthetic management for aspiration thrombectomy using the Penumbra Indigo System® in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease

ObjectivesDescribe clinical characteristics and outcomes including transfusion requirements of pediatric patients with congenital heart disease undergoing aspiration thrombectomy DesignRetrospective chart review SettingQuaternary academic children's hospital ParticipantsPatients < 18yrs with congenital heart disease undergoing aspiration thrombectomy from November 2017-February 2022. Measurements and main results13 patients underwent mechanical thrombectomy with the Penumbra Indigo System®. Median age was 3.8 years and median weight was 15.2kg. Seven patients had palliated single ventricle and 6 had biventricular circulation. Nine patients were receiving ICU care pre-procedure and 12 required ICU care post-procedure. Indications for thrombectomy included systemic venous thrombus (n=7), pulmonary arterial thrombus (n=3), systemic arterial thrombus (n=2), and systemic to pulmonary shunt occlusion (n=1). Median estimated blood loss was 7.7ml/kg (interquartile range 1.4ml/kg-15.8ml/kg, range 0.5ml/kg-51.5ml/kg). Seven patients required intraoperative transfusion of pRBCs (n=4), FFP (n=2), platelets (n=3), and/or cryoprecipitate (n=1). In those requiring transfusion, median transfusion volume was 22ml/kg (interquartile range 15.5ml/kg-76.5ml/kg, range 9.3ml/kg-132.8ml/kg). Thrombectomy was successful in 8 of 13 patients, although 3 experienced recurrent thrombosis. ConclusionsMechanical aspiration thrombectomy is increasingly used to treat critically ill pediatric patients and presents unique anesthetic considerations particularly related to the need for volume and blood product resuscitation

Comparative outcomes of cardioplegic arrest versus beating heart in pediatric undergoing extracardiac total cavopulmonary connection

BackgroundTotal cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) is a definitive palliative procedure for functionally univentricular congenital heart disease. The study aims to compare the impact of on-pump cardioplegic arrest and on-pump beating heart cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) on the prognosis of pediatric patients undergoing extracardiac TCPC.MethodsThe medical data of patients (< 18 years) who underwent extracardiac TCPC with CPB between January 2008 and December 2020 in the cardiac surgery center were retrospectively analyzed. Depending on CPB strategies, the patients were assigned to the beating-heart (BH) and cardioplegic arrest (CA) groups. Data including baseline characteristics, intra/postoperative variables, and clinical outcomes were collected for analysis with 1:1 propensity score matching and multivariable stepwise logistic regressions.ResultsFifty-seven matched patient pairs were obtained. No significant difference existed between the two groups in the in-hospital mortality (3.5% vs. 1.8%, P = 1) and one-year survival rate (100% vs. 96.4%, P = 0.484). The BH group had significantly less intraoperative platelet transfusion (10 mL vs. 150 mL, P = 0.019) and blood loss (100 mL vs. 150 mL, P = 0.033) than the CA group. The CA group had significantly higher vasoactive-inotropic scores (P < 0.05) and longer postoperative ICU stays (2.0 d vs. 3.7 d, P = 0.017). No significant difference existed between the two groups in the incidence of postoperative adverse events.ConclusionAlthough both CPB strategies are safe and feasible for extracardiac TCPC, the BH technique would cause less intraoperative platelet transfusion and blood loss, and achieve faster early-term postoperative recovery.

Thromboelastography-guided Intraoperative Platelet Transfusion in Pediatric Heart Surgery

BackgroundPostoperative bleeding is associated with significant resource use and is an important contributor to other major adverse events in pediatric patients undergoing complex cardiac surgical procedures. Thromboelastography (TEG; TEG 6S, Haemonetics) can guide perioperative blood product transfusions to reduce the risk of postoperative bleeding. This study validated the use of a previously developed TEG 6S maximum amplitude (TEG-MA)–based platelet transfusion calculator used during cardiac surgical procedures to minimize the risk of postoperative bleeding. MethodsIn this single-center retrospective study of pediatric patients (aged ≤18 years) who underwent cardiac surgical procedures requiring cardiopulmonary bypass at Boston Children’s Hospital (Boston, MA) (N = 1000), the volume of platelet transfusion administered at surgical team discretion was compared with the platelet calculator–recommended platelet transfusion volume by using linear regression analysis. Associations between the adequacy of perioperative platelet transfusion and postoperative bleeding or thrombotic complications within the first 24 hours postoperatively (bleeding) and until hospital discharge (thrombosis) were evaluated by logistic regression analysis. ResultsLower TEG-MA (≤45 mm) measurements after transfusion were associated with a higher risk for postoperative bleeding (odds ratio, 4.4; 95% CI, 2.6-7.4; P < .01 [significant P value <.05]). The platelet transfusion calculator–recommended platelet transfusion volume (on the basis of TEG-MA measured at the time of rewarming) demonstrated moderate correlation with the measured TEG-MA value after platelet transfusion (Pearson r = 0.7). Intraoperative volumes of platelet transfusion that failed to increase a postoperative TEG-MA of at least 45 mm significantly increased the risk for postoperative bleeding in the first 24 hours after surgical procedures (odds ratio, 3.2; 95% CI, 1.9-5.4; P < .01 [significant P value <.05]). The posttransfusion TEG-MA was not independently associated with thrombosis. ConclusionsCustomizing perioperative platelet transfusion therapy by using quantitative diagnostic tests can help reduce postoperative bleeding complications.

Use of Low-Dose Platelets in Actively Bleeding Patients: A Retrospective Analysis of a Cardiac Surgery Cohort.

During platelet shortages, many hospitals produce low-dose platelets by splitting a standard platelet unit (>3 × 1011 platelets in the United States) in 2, then providing these low-dose units to patients. While low-dose units were previously found to be effective for prophylactic purposes in patients undergoing chemotherapy in the Prophylactic Platelet Dose (PLADO) trial, their use in actively bleeding patients has not yet been assessed. To assess the use and safety of low-dose platelets in actively bleeding patients. We performed a retrospective review of cardiac surgery cases receiving platelet units for 18 months at 1 hospital. Two cohorts, those receiving only whole-dose platelets (37 cases) and those receiving only low-dose platelets (38 cases), were compared during the intraoperative and the 24-hour perioperative period. Mean number of platelet transfusions, dose of other blood products, estimated blood loss, bleeding complications in index cases, and all-cause mortality within 30 days of discharge were compared. There was no significant difference in mean number of intraoperative platelet transfusions between the cohorts (1.61 versus 1.53, P = .57). There was no significant increase in the transfusion of other blood products, estimated blood loss, bleeding complications in index cases, or all-cause mortality within 30 days of discharge in the low-dose platelet cohort, apart from a small increase in requirement for fresh frozen plasma in the perioperative period. These results suggest that low-dose platelets are tentatively equivalent to whole-dose platelets in cardiac surgery during shortages, with similar transfusion requirements and clinical outcomes between groups. Future multicenter studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Perioperative Hyper-coagulation and Thrombosis: Cost Analysis After Congenital Heart Surgery.

Thrombosis, a major adverse event of congenital heart surgery, has been associated with poor outcomes. We hypothesized that in CHD patients undergoing cardiac surgery, increased perioperative use of pro-coagulant products may be associated with postoperative thrombosis in the setting of hyperfibrinogenemia, leading to greater hospital and blood product costs. Single-center retrospective study. Data from Boston Children's Hospital's electronic health record database was used in this study. All patients undergoing congenital heart surgery between 2015 and 2018 with postoperative fibrinogen levels above 400mg/dl were reviewed. Of 334 patients with high plasma fibrinogen levels, 28 (8.4%) developed postoperative thrombosis (median age: one year, 59% male). In our cohort, 25 (7%) demonstrated evidence of baseline hypercoagulability by one or more panel test results. Thrombosis was associated with greater hospital and blood product costs, longer ventilation times, and longer hospital and ICU length of stays. Preoperative hypercoagulable state (odds ratio: 2.58, 95% CI [1.07, 9.99], p = 0.002), postoperative red blood cell transfusion (odds ratio: 1.007, 95% CI [1.000, 1.015], p = 0.04), and single ventricle physiology (univariate odds ratio: 2.94, 95% CI [1.09, 7.89], p = 0.03) were predictors of postoperative thrombosis. Preoperative hypercoagulable state and intraoperative platelet transfusion were predictors of hospital cost. Thrombosis was associated with worse in-hospital outcomes and higher costs. Preoperative hypercoagulable state and postoperative red blood cell transfusion were significant predictors of thrombosis. Risk prediction models that can guide thrombosis prevention are needed to improve outcomes of patients undergoing congenital heart surgery.

Impact of Intraoperative Allogeneic Platelet Transfusion on Healthcare-Associated Infections in Cardiac Surgery: Insights From a Large Single-Center Cohort Study

ObjectivesDespite significant improvement in patient blood management-cardiac surgery remains a high hemorrhagic risk procedure. Platelet transfusion is commonly used to treat thrombocytopenia-induced perioperative bleeding. Allogeneic platelet transfusion may induce transfusion-related immunomodulation. However, its association with postoperative healthcare-associated infections is still a matter of debate. Our objective was to evaluate the impact of allogeneic platelet transfusion during cardiac surgery on postoperative HAI incidence. DesignRetrospective cohort study SettingTertiary referral academic center ParticipantsPatients undergoing cardiac surgery from 2012 to 2018. InterventionsNone Measurements and Main ResultsIntraoperative platelet transfusion was defined as exposure in a causal model. The primary outcome was the incidence of healthcare-associated infections-comprised of bloodstream infection-hospital-acquired pneumonia and surgical-site infection. Among 7662 included patients, 528 (6.8%) were exposed to intraoperative platelet transfusion and 329 (4.3%) developed 454 postoperative infections. Bloodstream infection affected 106 (1.4%) patients, hospital-acquired pneumonia 174 (2.3%) and surgical-site infection 148 (1.9%). Intraoperative platelet transfusion was associated with an increased risk of bloodstream infection after adjustment by multivariable logistic regression (OR 2.85; 95%CI (1.40-5.8); p=0.004; n=7662), propensity score matching (OR 3.95; 95%CI (1.57-12.0), p=0.007; n=766) and propensity score overlap weighting (OR 3.04; 95%CI (1.51-6.1), p=0.002; n=7762). Surgical-site infection and hospital-acquired pneumonia were not significantly increased by platelet transfusion. ConclusionsOur results suggest that intraoperative allogeneic platelet transfusion is a risk factor for bloodstream infection after cardiac surgery. These results support the development of patient blood management strategies aiming at minimizing perioperative platelet transfusion in cardiac surgery.

Porto-spleno-mesenteric venous thrombosis after elective splenectomy: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundElective splenectomy is the main treatment for a wide range of haematological diseases. Porto-spleno-mesenteric venous thrombosis represents one of the most severe complications of this procedure. The aim of this study was to evaluate risk factors associated with development of porto-spleno-mesenteric venous thrombosis after elective splenectomy.MethodsAll cases of elective splenectomy carried out from April 1st 2017 to January 31st 2023 were included in this single centre retrospective cohort study. Patients’ demographics and perioperative data were analysed and correlated with the incidence of postoperative thrombosis. All patients underwent postoperative doppler ultrasound screening for thrombosis. Analysis was performed using SPSS 28, with p-value &amp;lt; 0.05 considered significant.ResultsTwenty-two patients (10 women, 12 men) underwent splenectomy during the study period. Indications were: immune thrombocytopenia (n: 6), myeloproliferative disorder (n: 6), hereditary spherocytosis (n: 4), thalassemia (n: 1), lymphoma (n: 1), leukaemia (n: 1), other malignancies (n: 3). Six patients developed porto-spleno-mesenteric venous thrombosis and only 2 of them were symptomatic. Patients were treated with anticoagulation therapy with complete resolution. Analysis identified three main factors associated with thrombosis: spleen diameter (p = 0.03), myeloproliferative disorder (p = 0.02), intraoperative platelet transfusion (p = 0.002) and intraoperative red blood cells transfusion (p = 0.009).ConclusionStandardized postoperative screening allows prompt diagnosis and treatment of porto-spleno-mesenteric venous thrombosis even in asymptomatic cases. Patient with splenomegaly and affected by myeloproliferative disorder have a greater risk to develop this complication.

Postoperative Delirium in Patients on Cardiopulmonary Bypass for Cardiovascular Surgeries: Incidence and Influencing Factors

To investigate the incidence and influencing factors of postoperative delirium (POD) and subsyndromal delirium (SSD) in patients connected to cardiopulmonary bypass during cardiovascular surgeries. We collected the general data and the data for the perioperative hematological, physiological, and biochemical indicators and the surgical and therapeutic conditions of patients connected to cardiopulmonary bypass during the course of cardiovascular surgeries conducted at a tertiary-care hospital in Hubei province between May 2022 and September 2022. The outcome indicators, including the incidence of POD and SSD, were assessed with the Nursing Delirium Screening Scale (Nu-DESC). Multinomial logistic regression was performed to analyze the influencing factors of patients with different statuses of POD and SSD. Among the 202 patients, the incidence of SSD, SSD progressing to POD, and no POD or SSD (ND) progressing to POD were 13.4%, 6.4%, and 34.2%, respectively. Regression analysis showed that, with ND patients as the controls, the influencing factors for SSD were preoperative blood glucose (odds ratio [ OR]=0.38, 95% confidence interval [ CI]: 0.19-0.76), intraoperative platelet transfusion ( OR=0.37, 95% CI: 0.15-0.92), intraoperative etomidate ( OR=0.93, 95% CI: 0.87-0.98), and postoperative total bilirubin level ( OR=1.04, 95% CI: 1.01-1.07). For the progression of SSD to POD, the influencing factors were age ( OR=1.09, 95% CI: 1.01-1.17), ASA classification of IV and above ( OR=10.72, 95% CI: 1.85-62.08), intraoperative dexmedetomidine ( OR=1.01, 95% CI: 1.003-1.02), and the duration of mechanical ventilation ( OR=1.04, 95% CI: 1.01-1.07). For the progression of ND to POD, the influencing factors were age ( OR=1.06, 95% CI: 1.02-1.10), middle or high school education ( OR=0.35, 95% CI: 0.15-0.83), and the duration of mechanical ventilation ( OR=1.04, 95% CI: 1.01-1.07). Age, education, ASA classification, preoperative blood glucose, intraoperative platelet transfusion, intraoperative etomidate, intraoperative dexmedetomidine, postoperative total bilirubin, and the duration of mechanical ventilation are influencing factors for different statuses of POD and SSD among patients connected to cardiopulmonary bypass when they are undergoing cardiovascular surgeries. The influencing factors vary across groups of patients with different statuses of POD and SSD. Therefore, we should accurately assess the risk factors of patients with different statuses of POD and SSD and carry out corresponding interventions, thereby preventing or reducing the occurrence of POD and SSD, and ultimately promoting enhanced recovery after surgery.

Ultra-fast track extubation protocol following cardiovascular surgery: Predictors of failure and outcomes.

Identifying independent predictor factors of failure of ultra-fast track (UFT) extubation and to compare in-hospital outcomes with UFT extubation versus fast track (FT) extubation after cardiovascular surgery in adults. Retrospective analysis of 1498 consecutive patients aged over 18 years-old undergoing cardiovascular surgery at a single institution. Between December 2014 and December 2016, FT extubation was used (N = 713) while, between December 2016 and December 2018, all patients were preoperatively considered suitable for UFT extubation (N = 785). In this instance, a standardized anaesthetic protocol was applied in all cases. The decision to not extubate in the operating room (OR) was based on intraoperative haemodynamic and ventilation. Extubation in the OR was possible in 699 (89%) patients. Significant independent predictors factors of UFT extubation failure were: preoperative NYHA class III-IV, myocardial infarction within two days prior to surgery, preoperative intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation, urgent/emergent surgery, intraoperative transfusion of platelets and intraoperative inotropic and vasopressor support. UFT extubation was associated with lower rates of cardiovascular complications such as congestive cardiac insufficiency (OR: 1,57; 95% CI: 1,13-2,19; p = 0,008) and new-onset postoperatory atrial fibrillation (OR: 1,40; 95% CI: 1,06-1,86; p = 0,020). Patient extubated in the OR presented lower risk of overall complications, shorter intensive care unit stay and higher short-term survival, although, no statistically significance was found when performing the multivariate adjustment. A routine immediate extubation in the OR following adult cardiovascular surgery is a feasible and safe practice, associated with low cardiovascular morbidity.

Protocolo de extubación ultra-fast track tras cirugía cardiovascular: predictores de fracaso y resultados

ObjectivesIdentifying independent predictor factors of failure of ultra-fast track (UFT) extubation and to compare in-hospital outcomes with UFT extubation versus fast track (FT) extubation after cardiovascular surgery in adults. Material and methodsRetrospective analysis of 1,498 consecutive patients aged over 18 years-old undergoing cardiovascular surgery at a single institution. Between December 2014 and December 2016, FT extubation was used (N=713) while, between December 2016 and December 2018, all patients were preoperatively considered suitable for UFT extubation (N=785). In this instance, a standardized anaesthetic protocol was applied in all cases. The decision to not extubate in the operating room (OR) was based on intraoperative haemodynamic and ventilation. ResultsExtubation in the OR was possible in 699 (89%) patients. Significant independent predictors factors of UFT extubation failure were: preoperative NYHA class III-IV, myocardial infarction within two days prior to surgery, preoperative intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation, urgent/emergent surgery, intraoperative transfusion of platelets and intraoperative inotropic and vasopressor support. UFT extubation was associated with lower rates of cardiovascular complications such as congestive cardiac insufficiency (OR: 1,57; 95% CI: 1,13-2,19; P=0,008) and new-onset postoperatory atrial fibrillation (OR: 1,40; 95% CI: 1,06-1,86; P=0,020). Patient extubated in the OR presented lower risk of overall complications, shorter intensive care unit stay and higher short-term survival, although, no statistically significance was found when performing the multivariate adjustment. ConclusionsA routine immediate extubation in the OR following adult cardiovascular surgery is a feasible and safe practice, associated with low cardiovascular morbidity.

Frequency and Outcome of Hepatic Arterial Thrombosis in Recipients of Living Donor Liver Transplantation.

Cohort study. Department of Liver Transplant, Pir Abdul Qadir Shah Jeelani Institute of Medical Sciences, Gambat, Sindh, Pakistan, from 1st January 2019 to 31st July 2020. Two hundred and forty living donor liver transplants (LDLT) recipients' data were evaluated. Frequencies of HAT were recorded, and various risk factors for the development of HAT were analysed by comparing HAT group (n = 12) and non-HAT group (n = 228). Management and outcome of HAT cases were also reviewed. Statistical analysis of this study was done with SPSS software version 21. Out of 240 patients, 212 (88.3%) were males. Overall mean age was 39.40 ± 12.14 years. Mean model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score was 18.70 ± 4.98. Overall male to female ratio was 7.5:1. The common indication for LDLT in these patients was chronic liver disease secondary to hepatitis B and C virus infection in 85% of patients. Postoperative HAT incidence was found as 5%. Risk factorfound statistically significant was intraoperative platelet transfusion. HAT is a deadly complication and needs early detection to avoid graft loss. The risk factor documented in this study should be avoided, if possible. Moreover, prompt and quick action is necessary for re-vascularisation to avoid re-transplantation. Key Words: Living donor, Hepatic arterial thrombosis, Liver transplantation.

Transfusion Practices in Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Requiring Cardiopulmonary Bypass: A Secondary Analysis of a Clinical Database.

To describe blood component usage in transfused children with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass surgery across perioperative settings and diagnostic categories. Datasets from U.S. hospitals participating in the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Recipient Epidemiology and Donor Evaluation Study-III were analyzed. Inpatient admissions from three U.S. hospitals from 2013 to 2016. Transfused children with congenital heart disease undergoing single ventricular, biventricular surgery, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. None. Eight hundred eighty-two transfused patients were included. Most of the 185 children with single ventricular surgery received multiple blood products: 81% RBCs, 79% platelets, 86% plasma, and 56% cryoprecipitate. In the 678 patients undergoing biventricular surgery, 85% were transfused plasma, 75% platelets, 74% RBCs, and 48% cryoprecipitate. All 19 patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were transfused RBCs, plasma, and cryoprecipitate, and 18 were transfused platelets. Intraoperatively, patients commonly received all three components, while postoperative transfusions were predominantly single blood components. Pretransfusion hemoglobin values were normal/low-normal for age for all phases of care for single ventricular surgery (median hemoglobin 13.2-13.5 g/dL). Pretransfusion hemoglobin values for biventricular surgeries were higher intraoperatively compared with other timing (12.2 g/dL vs 11.2 preoperative and postoperative; p < 0.0001). Plasma transfusions for all patients were associated with a near normal international normalized ratio: single ventricular surgeries median international normalized ratio was 1.3 postoperative versus 1.8 intraoperative and biventricular surgeries median international normalized ratio was 1.1 intraoperative versus 1.7 postoperative. Intraoperative platelet transfusions with biventricular surgeries had higher median platelet count compared with postoperative pretransfusion platelet count (244 × 109/L intraoperative vs 69 × 109/L postoperative). Children with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass surgery are transfused many blood components both intraoperatively and postoperatively. Multiple blood components are transfused intraoperatively at seemingly normal/low-normal pretransfusion values. Pediatric evidence guiding blood component transfusion in this population at high risk of bleeding and with limited physiologic reserve is needed to advance safe and effective blood conservation practices.

Decreased transfusion requirements with use of acute normovolemic hemodilution in open aortic aneurysm repair

ObjectiveAcute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) is an operative blood conservation technique involving the removal and storage of patient blood after the induction of anesthesia, with maintenance of normovolemia by crystalloid and/or colloid replacement. Developed and used predominately in cardiac surgery, ANH has been applied to the vascular surgery population. However, data regarding the effects on transfusion requirements in this population are limited. The objective of the present study was to compare the transfusion requirements and coagulopathy for patients who had undergone open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (oAAAR) using ANH to those for patients who had received only product replacements, as clinically indicated. MethodsWe performed a retrospective review of patients who had undergone elective oAAAR at a quaternary aortic referral center from 2017 to 2019. Those eligible for ANH, with no active cardiac ischemia, no valvular disease, normal left ventricular and right ventricular function, chronic kidney disease stage <3, hematocrit >38%, and a normal coagulation profile were included in the present study. Patient demographics and characteristics and operative variables, including aneurysm extent, clamp site, visceral and renal ischemia time, operative time, and transfusion requirements, were collected. Postoperative morbidity, mortality, and length of stay were analyzed. The patients with and without ANH were matched and compared. Continuous measures were analyzed using Wilcoxon rank sum tests and t tests. ResultsDuring the study period, 209 oAAARs had been performed. Of the 209 patients, 76 had met the inclusion criteria. Of these 76 patients, 27 had undergone ANH and 49 had not. The patients with ANH had required fewer PRBC transfusions intraoperatively (median, 0 U; interquartile range [IQR], 0-1 U; median, 1 U; IQR, 0-2 U; P = .02), at 24 hours (median, 0 U; IQR, 0-1 U; vs median, 1 U; IQR, 0-2 U; P = .008), at 48 hours (median, 0 U; IQR, 0-1 U; vs median, 1 U; IQR, 0-2; P = .007), and throughout the admission (median, 0 U; IQR, 0-1 U; vs median, 2 U; IQR, 0-2 U; P = .011). No difference was found in the number of intraoperative platelet or cryoprecipitate transfusions. At 48 hours, the ANH group had had significantly greater platelet counts (142 ± 35.8 × 103/μL vs 124 ± 37.6 × 103/μL; P = .044), lower partial thromboplastin time, and lower international normalized ratio. No difference in myocardial infarction, return to the operating room, or mortality (one death overall). The ANH patients had a shorter length of stay (7.0 ± 2.7 vs 8.8 ± 4.8 days; P = .041). ConclusionsThe use of ANH during oAAAR resulted in fewer intraoperative and postoperative PRBC transfusions with improved coagulation parameters and a shorter hospital length of stay.

Thromboelastography During Rewarming for Management of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Patients

BackgroundThromboelastography (TEG) predicts bleeding in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgical procedure. We hypothesize that TEG indicators at rewarming correlate with postprotamine values and that rewarming TEG is associated with surrogate end points for postoperative bleeding in pediatric patients undergoing complex cardiac surgical procedure. MethodsIn a retrospective study of 703 pediatric (≤18 years) patients undergoing complex cardiac surgical procedures, TEG results obtained during rewarming and after protamine administration were compared using linear regression. A composite end point of extended blood product transfusion or surgical reexploration for bleeding was used as a surrogate for postoperative bleeding. ResultsBy multivariable analysis, longer cardiopulmonary bypass time and lower TEG maximal amplitude (MA) during rewarming were independently associated with the risk of the composite end point in the operating room or in the intensive care unit (P < .05). Among patients with an MA of less than 45 mm during rewarming, those who received a platelet transfusion in the operating room compared with those who did not were less likely to reach the composite end point within the subsequent 24 hours (8% vs 32%, respectively; P < .01). Good correlation was observed between TEG variables at rewarming vs after protamine administration (Pearson r ≥ 0.7). The relationship between platelet transfusion volume (mL/kg) and the percentage change in the MA was determined using linear regression, and a platelet transfusion calculator was generated. ConclusionsA lower MA during rewarming is associated with an increased risk of perioperative bleeding. In patients with a rewarming MA of less than 45 mm, an intraoperative platelet transfusion may reduce the risk of subsequent bleeding. Individualized platelet transfusion therapy based on rewarming TEG may reduce the risk of bleeding while minimizing unnecessary platelet transfusion.

Preparing for Platelet Shortages: Which Surgeries Should be Cancelled?

Introduction: Due to their short shelf-life, platelet concentrates are particularly susceptible to the product shortages which may result from shortfalls in donor collections or disruptions to the manufacturing and supply chain. Mechanisms to address shortages are particularly important in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Canadian Blood Services (CBS), the national blood center serving Canada except Quebec, called a national Green Advisory Phase from May to June 2020 on platelet products and O negative red blood cells, requesting daily hospital inventory reports. When such shortages occur, it may be challenging to identify which surgical procedures are likely to require platelet transfusion support and should therefore be rescheduled. Methods: Information systems maintained by the Blood Transfusion Service (Wellsky®) and the Department of Surgical Services (ORSOS®) were cross-referenced for the 2019 calendar year at a large adult teaching hospital in Toronto with active cardiovascular and transplant programs. Only procedures that were performed more than 25 times during this period were included in the analysis. Average platelet consumption on the day of surgery, 1 week post-operatively and 30 days post-operatively was calculated. Results: 50 procedures with a potential for requiring intra-operative platelet transfusion support were identified, with the greatest demand being those involving cardiopulmonary bypass (CBP) support (27% of cases transfused, median of 2.7 units per case) and heart, liver and lung transplantation (24% of cases transfused, median of 4.2 units per case). Although spinal surgery as a group was not a high platelet consumer (4% of cases transfused, median of 0.3 units per case), certain complex procedures such as thoracic-lumbar laminectomy and thoracic-lumbar decompression and fusion were more at risk of requiring platelet support during and in the post-operative period. Due to their frequency, procedures on CPB created the highest demand in platelets with close to 4500 units distributed during the year. Standard deviations for many procedures was large, up to 10 units in the intra-operative period. Other procedures with low-risk of intra-operative platelet transfusion support but a possibility of requiring platelet transfusion in the 30-day post-operative period included renal transplantation and neurosurgical procedures. Interestingly, renal transplant patients generally did not require transfusion support during surgery or in the immediate post-operative period but only when looking at 30-day requirements. For most patients, these procedures would therefore be at risk only in the setting of very prolonged shortages. Conclusion: Data-driven demand forecasting for intra-operative and post-operative platelet transfusion support may be of value in risk-benefit analysis of proceeding with specific surgical procedures in the setting of platelet shortages. However, some of the procedures with the highest platelet consumption serve the sickest patients and cannot be postponed. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Cangrelor with Heparin for Patients with Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia Undergoing Pulmonary Thromboendarterectomy

Optimal intraoperative anticoagulation strategy for patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) undergoing pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE) that necessitates deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) remains controversial. Cangrelor is an intravenous direct-acting P2Y12 platelet receptor antagonist that achieves therapeutic effect and eliminates rapidly. Its antiplatelet activity is unaffected by stagnation of blood, nor is it influenced by patient's age, renal status or hepatic function. We report our novel strategy and experience in utilizing cangrelor in combination with heparin for anticoagulation during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and DHCA in HIT patients undergoing PTE. Retrospective chart review of 297 patients who underwent PTE from January 2018 through June 2019 was performed. Patients with suspected, acute, subacute A/B, and remote HIT at the time of procedure were identified (n=7). All 7 patients received cangrelor with heparin intraoperatively for anticoagulation during CPB and DHCA. Our institutional intraoperative anticoagulation strategy for HIT patients is to administer a loading dose of cangrelor (30 μg/kg) prior to giving full-dose heparin for CPB. Cangrelor infusion is initiated at 4 μg/kg/min and is adjusted throughout CPB depending on the intraoperative VerifyNow P2Y12 reaction unit values. Cangrelor infusion is stopped 10 minutes before heparin reversal with protamine. Postoperatively, bivalirudin and warfarin were used for anticoagulation. Of these 7 patients, HIT was suspected in 3 patients (43%) at the time of procedure, whilst 1 patient had subacute B HIT and 1 patient had remote HIT. Acute HIT was confirmed by serotonin release assay in 2 patients (29%) who underwent emergent PTE. All patients survived the procedure. Intraoperative platelet transfusion was required by 4 patients (57%). There were no serious postoperative thrombotic events nor major bleeding complications that required re-operation. One in-hospital death was associated with advanced intracardiac malignancy. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 10.6±5.5 days. In patients with various phases of HIT who require PTE, the use of cangrelor in combination with heparin may be a promising alternative intraoperative anticoagulation strategy providing acceptable outcomes.

The blood protective effect of autologous platelet separation in aortic dissection.

This study aimed to retrospectively analyze the blood protective effect of autologous platelet separation in operations for acute aortic dissection. A total of 130 patients with acute aortic dissection were enrolled into the present study. The average age of these patients was 52.962±10.5061 years old. These patients underwent the modified aortic arch replacement with the elephant trunk technique or endovascular aortic exclusion with covered stent. Among these patients, 68 patients who underwent autologous platelet separation were assigned to the platelet separation group, while the remaining patients were assigned to the control group. All operations were performed under deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. After anesthesia, 1-2 therapeutic doses of autologous platelets were isolated from patients in the platelet separation group, and these platelets were quickly infused back to these patients after heparin was neutralized by protamine at the end of the cardiopulmonary bypass. The preoperative and postoperative indexes in these two groups were compared. There were no statistically significant differences in age, gender, smoking history, drinking history and hypertension history between these two groups. Compared with controls, the transfusion volume of allogeneic platelets in the perioperative period significantly decreased in the platelet separation group (1.919±1.6226 vs. 0.794±1.1789, P < #x003C;< #x200A;0.05), and the use rate of allogeneic platelets also significantly decreased (74.19% vs. 45.59%, P < #x003C;< #x200A;0.05). The intraoperative auto transfusion of platelets significantly reduced the volume of allogeneic platelet transfusion after the operation for aortic dissection, which has a significant blood protective effect.

TEG Platelet Mapping and Impedance Aggregometry to Predict Platelet Transfusion During Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Pediatric Patients.

Background: Cardiopulmonary bypass-related platelet dysfunction can increase the risk of intra- and post-operative bleeding in children undergoing cardiac surgery. More accurate laboratory tests that identify acquired platelet abnormalities could allow for rapid identification of patients at risk of bleeding and provide therapies that could reduce bleeding and platelet transfusions. We hypothesized that thromboelastography with platelet mapping (TEG-PM) and multiple electrode impedance aggregometry (MEIA) as functional measures of platelet function would predict who will require platelet transfusion. Our secondary hypothesis was that platelet aggregation at both arachidonic acid (AA) and adenosine diphosphate (ADP) receptors would correlate between TEG-PM and MEIA results.Methods: In this prospective study from August 2013 to December 2015, children from newborn to 5 years of age with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass had blood samples collected and analyzed at four time points: pre-bypass, post-bypass, post-operatively on arrival to the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, and 24 h after arrival.Results: Of the 44 patients analyzed, the 10 patients who received peri-operative platelet transfusion were significantly younger (p = 0.05), had higher STAT (Society of Thoracic Surgeons-European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery) Mortality Categories (p < 0.002) and longer cardiopulmonary bypass times (p = 0.02). In univariate analysis, four variables were associated with peri-operative platelet transfusion: pre-operative age [OR 0.95 (0.93, 0.98), p = 0.03], cardiopulmonary bypass time [1.5 (1.31, 1.68), p = 0.008], STAT Mortality Category [3.64 (3.40, 3.87), p < 0.001], and TEG-PM ADP [0.79 (0.65, 0.93), p = 0.04]. ROC analysis demonstrated moderate predictive value of TEG-PM ADP with AUC of 0.745 (0.59, 0.91). A TEG-PM ADP value of less than or equal to 21 had 85% sensitivity and 70% specificity for platelet transfusion. In the multivariate analysis, only STAT Mortality Category predicted platelet transfusion. TEG-PM and MEIA results correlated for the AA receptor at all 4 time points, but the same tests at the ADP receptors did not correlate.Conclusions: TEG-PM ADP may provide more clinically relevant information regarding platelet function compared to the MEIA at the ADP receptor in children requiring cardiopulmonary bypass. There was limited correlation between TEG-PM and MEIA results which raises a concern about the accuracy of these tests at the ADP receptor. Lower pre-operative TEG-PM ADP MA may predict intra-operative platelet transfusions; however, larger studies are needed to determine the utility of TEG-PM and MEIA in guiding platelet transfusions in this population.

Dual antiplatelet therapy up to the time of non-elective coronary artery bypass grafting with prophylactic platelet transfusion: is it safe?

BackgroundGuidelines suggest that patients discontinue Clopidogrel at least 5 days prior to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Those with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) are at high risk for myocardial infarction (MI) if not treated with dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). We sought to assess pre and post-operative outcomes of patients maintained on Clopidogrel and aspirin up to the time of surgery and compare them with those on aspirin alone.MethodsFrom the cardiac surgery database, 240 patients were retrospectively registered between January and May 2017. There were 126 patients with ACS who underwent CABG on DAPT (Clopidogrel group [CG]) and 114 patients who underwent elective CABG on aspirin alone (control). The CG received intraoperative prophylactic platelet transfusion (PPT). Demographics, comorbidities, and laboratory data were prospectively entered at the time of surgery and were subsequently retrieved for analysis. Per and postoperative findings were identified and compared between both groups.ResultsThe cohort consisted of 240 patients (mean age 61 years, 81.3% were male, SD ± 9.58). Patients in the CG were younger (Median 57 vs. 63, P-value 0.001), and with male predominance (86% versus 75%, P-value 0.028). In addition, they had less prevalence for diabetes and renal failure as compared to control (P-values 0.003, and 0.005, respectively). There were no significant differences between both groups in number of vessels grafts, duration of on-pump and aortic clamp. Hematologic laboratory data had also similar baseline values. The CG had similar bleeding rate, redo surgery and in-hospital death (P-values non-significant), however more infection and total hospital stay as compared to control (p-values 0.048 and 0.001).ConclusionPatients who are at increased risk for MI can be maintained on DAPT up to the time of CABG because surgery is safe when patients are offered PPT.

INNV-11. THE RISK OF HEMORRHAGE ASSOCIATED WITH THROMBOCYTOPENIA IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING OMMAYA RESERVOIR PLACEMENT FOR INTRATHECAL CHEMOTHERAPY: A SINGLE INSTITUTION RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract PURPOSE Ommaya reservoirs are frequently inserted in patients requiring regular delivery of intrathecal medications. The incidence of intracranial hemorrhage following insertion ranges from 1–3% and is typically associated with thrombocytopenia. However, the exact platelet count at which it is considered safe to insert an Ommaya reservoir has not been previously reported. The purpose of this study is to investigate the nature of the relationship between thrombocytopenia and post-operative hemorrhage following insertion of Ommaya reservoirs for intrathecal chemotherapy. METHODS Consecutive patients requiring insertion of an Ommaya reservoir were enrolled in the study with no minimum platelet count as an exclusion criterion. Patients data were retrospectively reviewed with thrombocytopenia defined as platelet count &lt; 100,000. All thrombocytopenic patients received at least one unit of intraoperative platelet transfusion. Post-operative incidence of hemorrhage, determined through CT scan, was compared between the thrombocytopenic group and normal platelet group. RESULTS 53 patients were enrolled within the study with 23 patients determined to be thrombocytopenic at the time of insertion. Thrombocytopenic patients were found to have 18.6 times the odds of post-operative bleeding when compared to patients with normal platelet counts (p&lt; 0.001). However, no patient in the thrombocytopenic group had a clinically significant bleed, defined as being symptomatic or requiring intervention. CONCLUSIONS Although thrombocytopenia increases the risk of post-operative hemorrhage associated with Ommaya reservoir placement, there is no increase in clinically significant bleeding. With concurrent platelet transfusion and use of neuronavigation, Ommaya reservoir may be safely placed in thrombocytopenic patients.