Patients Required Blood Transfusion Research Articles

Hospital variation in adoption of balanced transfusion practices among injured patients requiring blood transfusions

BackgroundThis study sought to measure hospital variability in adoption of balanced transfusion following the Pragmatic, Randomized Optimal Platelet and Plasma Ratios (PROPPR) guidelines. We hypothesized hospital adoption rates of balanced transfusion would be low, and vary significantly among hospitals after controlling for patient, injury and hospital characteristics. Study Design and MethodsThis was an observational cohort study of injured adult patients (≥16 years) in Trauma Quality Improvement Program hospitals 2016–2021. Inclusion criteria were hypotensive patients receiving one transfusion of packed red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma, platelets, or cryoprecipitate. Balanced transfusion was defined as ≥1 ratio of plasma to packed red blood cells or platelets to packed red blood cells or whole blood use at 4 hours. Hierarchical multivariable logistic regression quantified residual hospital-level variability in balanced transfusion rates after adjusting for patient and hospital characteristics. ResultsAmong 172,457 injured patients who received transfusions, 30,386 (17.6%) underwent balanced transfusion. Patient-level balanced transfusion rates were 11% in 2016, rose to 14.0% in 2019, and jumped up once whole blood transfusions were measured to 24.0% in 2020 and to 25.9% in 2021. Approximately 26% of the variability in balanced transfusion rates was attributable to the hospital. Verified level I hospitals had a 2.09 increased adjusted odds of balanced transfusion (95% CI 1.88–2.21) compared to nonverified hospitals. University teaching status had a 1.29 increased adjusted odds of balanced transfusion (95% CI 1.08–1.54) compared with community hospitals. Overall, 150 (23.5%) hospitals were high outliers (high performing) in balanced transfusion adoption and 124 (19.4%) hospitals were low outliers. ConclusionThere was significant variability in hospital adoption of balanced transfusion.

Single center assessment of the role of Oakland score among patients admitted for acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding

Background/ObjectivesThe Oakland score was developed to predict safe discharge in patients who present to the emergency department with lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB). In this study, we retrospectively evaluated if this score can be implemented to assess safe discharge (score ≤ 10) at WellStar Atlanta Medical Center (WAMC).MethodsA retrospective cohort study of 108 patients admitted at WAMC from January 1, 2020 to December 30, 2021 was performed. Patients with LGIB based on the ICD-10 codes were included. Oakland score was calculated using 7 variables (age, sex, previous LGIB, digital rectal exam, pulse, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and hemoglobin (Hgb)) for all patients at admission and discharge from the hospital. The total score ranges from 0 to 35 and a score of ≤ 10 is a cut-off that has been shown to predict safe discharge. Hgb and SBP are the main contributors to the score, where lower values correspond to a higher Oakland score. Descriptive and multivariate analysis was performed using SPSS 23 software.ResultsA total of 108 patients met the inclusion criteria, 53 (49.1%) were female with racial distribution was as follows: 89 (82.4%) African Americans, 17 (15.7%) Caucasian, and 2 (1.9%) others. Colonoscopy was performed in 69.4% patients; and 61.1% patients required blood transfusion during hospitalization. Mean SBP records at admission and discharge were 129.0 (95% CI, 124.0-134.1) and 130.7 (95% CI,125.7-135.8), respectively. The majority (59.2%) of patients had baseline anemia and the mean Hgb values were 11.0 (95% CI, 10.5–11.5) g/dL at baseline prior to hospitalization, 8.8 (95% CI, 8.2–9.5) g/dL on arrival and 9.4 (95% CI, 9.0-9.7) g/dL at discharge from hospital. On admission, 100/108 (92.6%) of patients had an Oakland score of > 10 of which almost all patients (104/108 (96.2%)) continued to have persistent elevation of Oakland Score greater than 10 at discharge. Even though, the mean Oakland score improved from 21.7 (95% CI, 20.4–23.1) of the day of arrival to 20.3 (95% CI, 19.4–21.2) at discharge, only 4/108 (3.7%) of patients had an Oakland score of ≤ 10 at discharge. Despite this, only 9/108 (8.33%) required readmission for LGIB during a 1-year follow-up. We found that history of admission for previous LGIB was associated with readmission with adjusted odds ratio 4.42 (95% CI, 1.010-19.348, p = 0.048).ConclusionsIn this study, nearly all patients who had Oakland score of > 10 at admission continued to have a score above 10 at discharge. If the Oakland Score was used as the sole criteria for discharge most patients would not have met discharge criteria. Interestingly, most of these patients did not require readmission despite an elevated Oakland score at time of discharge, indicating the Oakland score did not really predict safe discharge. A potential confounder was the Oakland score did not consider baseline anemia during calculation. A prospective study to evaluate a modified Oakland score that considers baseline anemia could add value in this patient population.

Two-year outcomes of internal fixation with femoral neck system in patients with femoral neck fracture in an Asian population

BackgroundFemoral neck fractures (FNF) are one of the most common fractures, with a projected increase in incidence with population growth and ageing. The Femoral Neck System (FNS) launched in 2019 was developed specifically for fixation of FNF with the purported advantages of providing both angular and rotational stability. We report our experience with the FNS and evaluate its effectiveness and associated complications. MethodsA retrospective case series of 50 patients who underwent surgical fixation for FNF from August 2020 to October 2021 using the FNS in two Singapore tertiary institutions with at least 2 years follow-up were included. Clinical data (patients’ demographics, fracture classification, intra-operative and post-operative complications) were reviewed. Radiological analysis assessed the pre- and immediate post-operative garden alignment index (GAI) and presence of femoral neck shortening at 3 months. ResultsThe mean age was 63.5 years (SD 16.9, range 26–92). Five (10 %), 34 (68 %) and 11 (22 %) were ASA 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Twenty-four (48 %), 16 (32 %), 4 (8 %), and 6 (12 %) patients sustained Garden's 1, 2, 3 and 4 FNF respectively. The mean operative duration was 66.2 min (SD 20.5) and length of stay was 6.9 days (SD 4.6).The post-operative improvement in garden alignment index (GAI) was a mean of 9.1° (p < 0.001) on lateral view. The mean femoral neck shortening was 1.97 mm (SD 5.3) at 3 months. There were no intra-operative complications. Post-operatively, 1 (2 %) patient required blood transfusion, 1 (2 %) patient had implant cut-out and non-union managed non-operatively, 2 (4 %) patients developed avascular necrosis and required revision to total hip replacements. There were two (4 %) cases of 1-year mortality. ConclusionThe FNS achieved good outcomes with low rates of complications. The promising results justify its continued use and further evaluation in comparison to other devices.

Short-term outcomes of robotic tumor-specific mesorectal resection of rectal cancer: surgical techniques in mesorectal division using rolling division of the mesorectum.

This study aims to report our surgical techniques for robot-assisted laparoscopic anterior resection, specifically focusing on mesorectal division using rolling division of the mesorectum, and to elucidate short-term outcomes at a single institution. Tumor-specific mesorectal excision (TSME) is commonly performed for resection of a tumor located in the upper rectum. However, especially in a narrow pelvis, it is difficult to perform appropriate mesorectal division at an adequate distance from the tumor in robot-assisted laparoscopic anterior resection. Retrospective case series of patients with rectal cancer who underwent robot-assisted TSME using rolling division of mesorectum. Patient characteristics, perioperative clinical results, surgical and pathological details were recorded. A total of 198 patients underwent robot-assisted TSME for rectal cancer using rolling division of mesorectum between May 2019 and December 2023.The tumor was located in the upper rectum in 45 patients, middle rectum in 115 patients and lower rectum in 38 patients. The types of resections were 40 high anterior resection and 158 low anterior resections. The median operation time was 175 (range 109-310) min, and median mesorectal division time was 24 (range 15-45) min. Median blood loss was 3 (range 0-20) ml; no patients required blood transfusion. The overall complication rate of Clavien-Dindo classification grades I-IV was 7.1%. Anastomotic leakage was observed in two patients (1.0%) with grade III. There was no surgical mortality in this series. This robotic technique for anterior resection is a feasible and reliable procedure for achieving sufficient and safe TSME in this cohort.

Complications of placenta previa: A retrospective observational study at tertiary care hospital

: Placenta previa (PP) is condition where the placenta is inserted completely or partially into the lower uterine segment, at or after 28 weeks of gestation. Maternal and fetal risks are antepartum haemorrhage (APH), postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), abnormal adherence of placenta, low birth weight (LBW), intra uterine growth restriction (IUGR), preterm births and congenital malformations. The purpose of this study was to determine the proportion of placenta previa, the demographics of patients, types- severity, complications and the feto-maternal outcome in patients of placenta previa.: After due permission of Institutional Review Board, this retrospective observational study was carried out at tertiary care teaching hospital from July 2020 to November 2022.Proportion of pregnancies with placenta previa was 0.3%. Majority 44(91.7%) patients were registered, 38(79.2%) of patients were in age group of 21-30 years, 38(79.1%) patients were multigravida, 41 (85.4%) had major degree of placenta previa, 29(60.4%) patients admitted after 37 weeks of gestation and 47(97.9%) of patients were delivered by caesarean section. Majority of patients, 20 (41.7%) had mild anemia. Major complications were bleeding episodes during antenatal period/APH in 23 (47.9%) and PPH in 22 (45.8%) patients. Maternal mortality occurred in 1 (2.1%) patient. All babies were live at time of birth and 44(91.7%) babies were alive at the time of discharge and neonatal death occurred in 4 (8.3%) preterm babies (28-33 week gestation). Majority of patients were multigravida. No patient was severely anaemic. Majority of patients were delivered by CS. APH and PPH were major complications. About two third of patients required blood transfusion in ante/intra/post-natal period. Obstetric hysterectomy was required in about one tenth of patients. Majority of babies were alive at the time of discharge due to higher number of registered patients who took regular antenatal care, hospital delivery and good NICU facilities. Once diagnosed, placenta previa and morbidly adherent placenta should be managed at tertiary care centre with multidisciplinary approach so as to lessen the feto-maternal morbidity and mortality. Prevention is better than cure. Multiparity increases the risk of placenta previa. Hence, family planning with an aim to reduce unwanted pregnancies and abortions will help to reduce the chances placenta previa. CS increases the risk of development of placenta previa. Efforts should be made to reduce the primary caesarean section rate as it poses more risk of placenta previa, morbidly adherent placenta and its related complications in subsequent gestations.

Management of renal sinus angiomyolipoma: modified robotic nephron-sparing surgery in a single center

BackgroundRenal sinus angiomyolipoma (RSAML) is a rare and typically complex renal tumor. The objective is to present our single-center experience with a modified technique of robotic nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) for treating RSAML.MethodsWe retrospectively evaluated 15 patients with RSAMLs who were treated with robotic NSS at the Department of Urology of Tongji hospital, ranging from November 2018 to September 2022. Renal vessels and ureter were dissected. The outer part of RSAML was resected. The rest of tumor was removed by bluntly grasp, curettage and suction. Absorbable gelatin sponges were filled in the renal sinus. The preoperative parameters, operative measures and postoperative outcomes were all collected. Follow-up was performed by ultrasonography and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).ResultsRobotic NSS was successfully performed in all the patients, without any conversion to open surgery or nephrectomy. The mean operation time was 134.13 ± 40.56 min. The mean warm ischemia time was 25.73 ± 3.28 min. The median estimated blood loss was 100 [50, 270] ml and 1 patient required blood transfusion. The mean drainage duration was 5.77 ± 1.98 days. The median postoperative hospital stay was 6.90 [5.80, 8.70] days. Two patients experienced postoperative urinary tract infection (Clavien-Dindo Grade II). During the median follow-up of 25.53 ± 15.28 months, patients received 91.18% renal function preservation. No local recurrence occurred in all the patients.ConclusionsRobotic NSS for RSAML is a complicated procedure that demands technical expertise and a well-designed strategy is critical in the operation. Treating RSAML with modified robotic NSS is safe, effective and feasible.

Meta-analysis of clinical outcomes of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy and classical open partial nephrectomy.

Robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) has emerged as a promising alternative to classical partial nephrectomy (CPN). This study aimed to compare the outcomes of RAPN and CPN for treating localized renal tumors through a meta-analysis of available literature. Chinese databases, such as CNKI, Chinese Science and Technology Periodicals Database (VIP), and Wanfang Full-text Database, were searched using Chinese search terms, and all published articles on PubMed and Web of Science were searched using English search terms. Articles on Localized Renal Tumors were included. RevMan5.3 software was used for meta-analysis. The funnel plots were drawn using Stata software to assess publication bias. This study aimed to identify the differences between robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy and classic partial nephrectomy in patients with localized renal tumors. In total, 67 articles with 17677 patients were included. The results demonstrate the advantages of RAPN over CPN for localized renal tumors. Compared to CPN and RAPN had significant differences in intraoperative blood loss, hospital stay duration, incidence of perioperative complications, and proportion of patients requiring blood transfusion. Regarding surgical outcomes, RAPN showed more favorable results regarding the incidence of positive resection margins, postoperative decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), postoperative local recurrence rate, and proportion of Trifecta achieved. However, there was no significant difference between RAPN and CPN regarding 5-year tumor-specific survival rates. The study suggests that robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy is a viable alternative to classic surgery for renal tumors. The strengths of this study are the use of a comprehensive search strategy and the inclusion of studies published in both English and Chinese. The limitations of this study are the small sample size and the need for long-term follow-up data. RAPN and CPN have similar overall survival outcomes for treating localized renal tumors. However, RAPN may offer advantages in terms of perioperative outcomes and preservation of renal function. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and to identify the optimal surgical approach for individual patients.

219 A Proposed Technique for Early Venous Sacrifice as an Alternative to Standard Yasargil Technique for Resection of Cerebral AVM's

INTRODUCTION: This study introduces an alternative technique to the standard Yasargil resection of AVMs. METHODS: This 20-year prospective observational study compared the outcomes of 510 consecutive patients undergoing resection of AVM using either the early venous sacrifice technique (test group, n = 206) or a historical control group who underwent AVM resection using standard technique (Yasargil Technique, n = 304). RESULTS: The test group had significantly more Grade II (35% vs 30.3%) and Grade III (45.1% vs 38.8%) AVMs, while the control group had significantly more Grade I (40.4% vs 7.8%) AVMs. There was no difference in the number of Grade IV or Grade V AVMs. Overall, the test group presented with higher grade AVMs than the control group. Outcomes analyzed included post-operative stroke (CVA), death, modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score, need for blood transfusion, and incomplete obliteration of the AVM. Patients in the test group were 58% less likely to require blood transfusion compared to control (5.8% vs 13.8%, 58% RRR, NNT = 12.5, p = 0.004). Although not statistically significant, there was a trend toward reduced risk of CVA (RRR = 26%), post-operative mRS = 3 (RRR = 30%), and death (RRR = 51%) in the test group relative to the traditional Yasargil technique. CONCLUSIONS: In the proposed technique the number of patients requiring blood transfusions was reduced by 1 for every 12.5 patients treated with the standard technique. The number of patients experiencing poor mRS (&gt;3) was reduced by 1 for every 48.7 patients treated. The number of patients experiencing post- operative CVA was reduced by 1 for every 58 patients treated.

Titanium clips for vascular control of renal vessels during laparoscopic nephrectomy: a safe and cost effective tertiary care center experience

This study aimed to evaluate the safety and cost-effectiveness of practice of titanium clip application on renal vessels in laparoscopic nephrectomy (LN) in a tertiary care hospital. A total of 143 patients were included in our study undergoing laparoscopic nephrectomy from January 2018 to April 2023. In our study, 3 titanium clips were applied on each renal artery and vein 1-2 mm apart from each other in order to achieve vascular control of the renal pedicle. This data was obtained retrospectively through medical records. We reported 31 (22%) patients in our study with malignant conditions and 112 (88%) patients with benign diseases. Of these, 4 (3 %) patients required blood transfusion. There were four cases where laparoscopic nephrectomy was converted to open procedure. No incidence of slippage of titanium clips used for vascular ligation was reported in our study neither did we encounter any clip dislodgement during or after the surgery. No significant post-operative complications pertaining to clip application were seen. Cost analysis revealed that most cases required a total of 6 titanium clips costing around 8 USD (4 USD per cartridge of 6 titanium clips) in total for vascular control. Titanium clip application for securing renal vessels during laparoscopic nephrectomy is a safe and cost-effective approach.

Total femoral spanning for distal femur "fragility" fractures utilising nail-plate fixation "short-term experience of a district general hospital".

Our primary objective was to investigate the time to radiological union following linked nail-plate fixation of distal femur "fragility" fractures. Secondary objectives were to evaluate all-cause reoperations, 90-day mortality, rate of blood transfusion and the impact on quality of life. In this retrospective study of all adults (≥ 65years) with native or periprosthetic distal femur fragility fractures, underwent a linked nail-plate fixation, data were retrieved on fracture classifications, clinical frailty score, blood transfusion, length of hospital stay, 90-day mortality, time to radiological union, overall complication rates and EuroQoL-5D. In total, 18 out of 23 patients completed sequential follow-up. Radiological union was observed in 14 patients (median 143days; range 42-414). Three patients underwent reoperations. There were no implant failures or a subsequent periprosthetic fractures. Ninety-day mortality was 17.4%. Eighteen patients required blood transfusion. The QoL was significantly lower after index surgery (0.875 vs. 0.684; p < 0.01). Based on our observation, with short-term follow-up, the linked nail-plate yields optimal stability to allow immediate weight bearing, in a cohort with moderate frailty. It is reproducible,with variable radiological union rates. The concept of "total femoral spanning" reduces the risk of subsequent periprosthetic fractures. The additional intervention has increased the rates of allogenic blood transfusion. There is significant impact on overall QoL, with almost 50% being more dependent in self-care.

Clinically relevant bleeding risk in low-energy fragility fractures of the pelvis in elderly patients.

Low-energy fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) are an underestimated entity, yet increasing in incidence. The bleeding risk for pelvic fractures in high-energy trauma is well known, resulting in adequate treatment guidelines and clear protocols. This is not the case for FFPs but this risk is presumably low. This study aims to investigate the clinically relevant bleeding risk, in patients older than 50years with a fragility fracture of the pelvis admitted to the emergency department (ED). A retrospective cohort study was conducted of consecutive patients aged over 50years with a FFP due to low-energy trauma (LET) presented to the ED of a single trauma center (North-West Clinics in Alkmaar, The Netherlands) between January 2018 and August 2022. The primary outcome was the percentage of patients requiring blood transfusion, or invasive procedures such as coiling by the interventional radiologists or damage control surgery, due to bleeding. Secondary outcomes were the mean decrease of hemoglobin and mortality. In total, 322 consecutive patients with a mean age of 80years of which 84% female were included. In total 66% was admitted to the hospital and seven patients underwent surgical intervention. Three cases (0.9%) of potentially clinically relevant bleeding were observed. These three cases needed a blood transfusion, without other interventions, and were all admitted with a low hemoglobin level without signs of hemodynamic instability. No invasive interventions were noted. The risk of bleeding in FFP's is very low with very few patients requiring blood transfusions (< 1%) and with no invasive interventions due to bleeding. Since the risk of clinically relevant bleeding is low, the significance of repeated Hb checks and CECT may be questionable. The effect of these diagnostics in case of absence of hemodynamic instability and above borderline normal Hb levels needs to be investigated in further studies.

Eculizumab in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria: a real-world study in China

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of eculizumab in the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) in China. Methods: Data from PNH patients who received at least 3 months of full-dose eculizumab and were followed for at least 3 months between December 2022 and July 2023 were retrospectively collected. We evaluated changes in clinical and laboratory parameters after 1, 2, 3, and 6 months of eculizumab treatment. The rates of breakthrough hemolysis (BTH), extravascular hemolysis (EVH), and the occurrence of adverse reactions were also monitored. Results: The study included nine patients, six males and three females, with a median age of 54 (28-69) years. 5 of the patients had classic PNH, while 4 had PNH/AA. The number of episodes of hemoglobinuria was 5 (1-25) per month before eculizumab. 4 patients required blood transfusion, 5 had thrombosis and one had renal impairment before eculizumab. The median time to eculizumab was 6 (3-7) months and the followup period was 3 (3-6) months after treatment. The number of episodes of hemoglobinuria following eculizumab was 0 (0-1). During the followup period, no additional thrombotic events occurred. LDH at any time after eculizumab was lower than at baseline, and some patients' HGB increased. All transfused patients became transfusion-independent after receiving eculizumab. The FACIT-Fatigue score improved by an average of 17.3 points following treatment. 2 patients developed BTH and improved with symptomatic treatment. There were three adverse events that caused mild symptoms. There are no serious adverse events or deaths. Conclusion: Eculizumab can effectively control the hemolytic-related symptoms of PNH in China, reducing the need for blood transfusions to some extent, while also demonstrating a higher safety profile.

Real-world experience of pegcetacoplan in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria.

Pegcetacoplan significantly improves outcomes for patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) experiencing extravascular hemolysis (EVH) on eculizumab, leading to approval in 2021/2022 (USA/Europe). We report the first collaborative real-world evidence on pegcetacoplan use in UK and France. A total of 48 patients were either currently receiving or previously received pegcetacoplan (2019-2023). A total of 12 patients had participated in the PEGASUS clinical trial, continuing treatment after trial completion. Five patients were on combination treatment of C5 inhibition and pegcetacoplan. Mean pegcetacoplan duration was 20.2 months. Indication for pegcetacoplan was EVH on C5 inhibitors (Eculizumab, n = 29, Ravulizumab n = 16, others n = 3) with 35/48 patients requiring blood transfusion within the previous 12 months. Mean hemoglobin and reticulocyte count at pegcetacoplan commencement and after 3 months: 91 g/L and 205 × 109/L and 115.8 g/L and 107 × 109/L, respectively, resulting in mean Hb change of 22.3 g/L. Mean LDH pre- and post-pegcetacoplan was unchanged. Six patients have stopped pegcetacoplan. A total of 32 breakthrough hemolysis (BTH) events occurred in 13/48 patients. A total of 14 events were within clinical trials (reported separately). Six patients experienced 18 acute BTH events outside clinical trials, 7/18 associated with complement activating conditions. Successful clinical management included daily pegcetacoplan subcutaneously for 3 days or single eculizumab doses; these events are manageable with prompt intervention. Pegcetacoplan is effective for patients with PNH experiencing EVH. In this large patient cohort, treatment was well tolerated with improved hemoglobin and reticulocytes and maintained LDH control. Although BTH occurs, this is manageable by acute dose modification, with the majority of patients being maintained on pegcetacoplan.

Outcomes of ultraminipercutaneous nephrolithotomy in infants: our experiences at a single center in an endemic region.

In this study, we aimed to contribute to the literature by sharing the perioperative and postoperative outcomes of infants (0-24months) who underwent ultra-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) for kidney stones in our clinic. Infants under 24months old with kidney stones of 2cm and larger, who applied to our clinic between January 2018 and May 2023, were included in the study. The patients' demographic and clinical characteristics were obtained from the medical records. The collected data were analyzed retrospectively. A total of 26 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 17.3±3.90 (12-24) months. The mean operation time was 50.7±6.43min. The mean stone size was 2.66±0.59cm. Stone-free was achieved in 23 patients (88.5%). In one patient (3.8%) with residual fragments, SWL was performed, and in two patients (7.7%), RIRS was performed to achieve stone-free. Postoperatively, fever was observed in 3 patients (11.5%). There were no patients requiring blood transfusion. In experienced centers, ultra-mini-PNL performed by experienced surgeons is an effective and reliable treatment option for infants under 24months of age with kidney stones larger than 2cm. It provides high-stone clearance rates and low complication rates.

Laparoscopic partial splenectomy in distal pancreatectomy may preserve splenic function.

Splenectomy is known to carry a risk of infection with encapsulated organisms and associated sepsis. Current Australian guidelines recommend intensive vaccination schedules and long-term antibiotic therapy. We postulate that in some clinical scenarios where distal pancreatectomy (DP) and splenectomy is being performed, a partial splenectomy is feasible. This may preserve splenic function and help retain immunocompetence. Five patients underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with partial splenectomy (LDPPS). The DP is performed with proximal division and resection of the splenic artery and vein. The inferior portion of the spleen is removed en bloc with the distal pancreas with ligasure and linear cutting staplers. The line of demarcation on the spleen after the division of the splenic artery identifies the portion supplied by the short gastric vessels. Temporary clamping of the short gastrics during splenic parenchymal transection reduces blood loss. All operations were completed laparoscopically and within 4 h. The pathology of resected lesions includes a serous cystadenoma, a pseudocyst, an IPMN and two small medial pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas. The benign lesions involved splenic vessels at the hilum, making Kimura or Warshaw procedures untenable. No patient required blood transfusion. One patient suffered a postoperative collection consistent with postoperative pancreatic fistula requiring a drain for 10 days. Follow-up ranged from 6 to 24 months. Following surgery, all patients had a perfused splenic remnant on imaging and benign blood films, which suggests retained splenic function. Preserving some spleen when performing distal pancreatectomy may provide long-term benefits for patients.

Molecular typing of Kell, Kidd, and Duffy antigens in direct antiglobulin test-positive autoimmune hemolytic anemia patients.

In autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) patients, conventional pretransfusion testing is difficult to interpret due to the presence of autoantibodies which may show panreactivity. Molecular phenotyping of red cell antigens could potentially be used to precisely match blood units, thereby reducing the need to perform intensive serologic laboratory testing, hence time delay in providing transfusion to such patients. The aim of this study is to perform the molecular typing for Kell, Kidd, and Duffy blood group antigens in direct antiglobulin test (DAT)-positive red blood cells of AIHA patients and provide corresponding antigen-matched blood for transfusion therapy. Blood samples from 50 normal blood donors and 30 DAT-positive AIHA patients were tested using standard serological techniques and polymerase chain reaction-based methods for Kell (K/k), Kidd (Jka/Jkb), and Duffy (Fya/Fyb) blood group systems. Five patients requiring blood transfusion were given donor blood units identical for Kell, Kidd, and Duffy antigens and followed up. Genotyping and phenotyping results were 100% concordant for normal blood donors. Serological phenotyping of minor red cell antigens showed varied degree of agglutination for AIHA patients. The molecular typing was able to detect the antigen frequency accurately in all samples. The results of genotyping were used to provide Kell-, Kidd-, and Duffy-matched blood for transfusion therapy to AIHA patients with no adverse reaction. Molecular blood group typing has proved immensely useful in the determination of actual antigen profile and hence in providing appropriate transfusion support in patients with AIHA reduced risk of transfusion reactions and alloimmunization.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Blood Transfusion in HIV-Positive Pediatric Severe Malaria Patients: A Review

This paper explores the intricate interplay between HIV infection, severe malaria, and blood transfusion in pediatric patients. With a focus on the immunomodulatory effects of blood transfusion, we delve into the complex dynamics that govern these overlapping health challenges. This review aims to contribute to a nuanced approach to care, fostering improved outcomes and better-informed healthcare decisions for HIV-positive pediatric severe malaria patients requiring blood transfusion. The immunopathogenesis of HIV and severe malaria sets the stage for understanding the unique vulnerabilities of coinfected children. Blood transfusion, a critical intervention for severe anemia, is examined in the context of its impact on immune responses in HIV-positive pediatric severe malaria patients. The paper synthesizes existing knowledge on transfusion-related immune modulation (TRIM) and navigates through challenges and controversies surrounding this therapeutic strategy. Future perspectives and recommendations underscore the need for further research to enhance our understanding and guide clinical practice in managing this complex patient population.

Concomitant severe traumatic brain injury is not associated with increased red blood cell transfusion volumes in patients with pelvic fractures: A retrospective observational study

IntroductionTraumatic brain injury (TBI)-associated coagulopathy significantly influences survival outcomes in patients with multiple injuries. Severe TBI can potentially affect systemic hemostasis due to coagulopathy; however, there is limited evidence regarding whether the risk of hemorrhage increases in patients with pelvic fractures complicated with TBI. Therefore, through multivariable analysis, we aimed to examine the association between severe TBI and increased blood transfusion requirements in patients with pelvic fractures. Materials and methodsThis retrospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care facility in Japan. Patients aged 16 years or older with pelvic fractures who were admitted to our intensive care unit between April 2014 and December 2021 were included in the analysis. The patients were categorized into no to mild and severe TBI groups according to whether the Head Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) score was 3 or higher. The primary outcome was the number of red blood cell (RBC) units transfused within 24 h after arrival at the hospital. The primary outcome was analyzed using univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses. The covariates used for the multivariable linear regression analysis were age, sex, antithrombotic therapy, mechanism of injury, Pelvic AIS score, and extravasation on contrast-enhanced computed tomography on admission. ResultsWe identified 315 eligible patients (221 and 94 in the no to mild and severe TBI groups, respectively). In the univariable analysis, the RBC transfusion volume within 24 h after arrival was significantly higher in the severe TBI group than in the no to mild TBI group (2.53-unit increase; 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 0.46–4.61). However, in the multivariable analysis, no statistically significant association was detected between severe TBI and the RBC transfusion volume within 24 h after arrival at the hospital (0.87-unit increase; 95 % CI: −1.11–2.85). ConclusionsConcomitant severe TBI was not associated with increased RBC transfusion volumes in patients with pelvic fractures on multivariable analysis.

High Rate of Passenger Lymphocyte Syndrome after ABO Minor Incompatible Lung Transplantation.

Rationale: Passenger lymphocyte syndrome (PLS) may complicate minor ABO mismatched lung transplantation (LuTX) via donor-derived red cell antibody-induced hemolysis.Objectives: To ascertain the incidence and specificity of PLS-relevant antibodies among the study population as well as the dynamics of hemolysis parameters and the transfusion requirement of patients with or without PLS.Methods: In this cohort study, 1,011 patients who received LuTX between January 2010 and June 2019 were studied retrospectively. Prospectively, 87 LuTX (July 2019 to June 2021) were analyzed. Postoperative ABO antibody and hemolytic marker determinations, transfusion requirement, and duration of postoperative hospital care were analyzed. Retrospectively, blood group A recipients of O grafts with PLS were compared with those without.Measurements and Main Results: PLS affected 18.18% (retrospective) and 30.77% (prospective) of A recipients receiving O grafts, 5.13% of B recipients of O grafts, and 20% of AB patients receiving O transplants. Anti-A and anti-A1 were the predominant PLS-inducing antibodies, followed by anti-B and anti-A,B. Significantly lower hemoglobin values (median, 7.4 vs. 8.3 g/dl; P = 0.0063) and an approximately twice as high percentage of patients requiring blood transfusions were seen in PLS. No significant differences in other laboratory markers, duration of hospital stay, or other complications after LuTX were registered.Conclusions: Minor ABO incompatible LuTX recipients are at considerable risk of developing clinically significant PLS. Post-transplant monitoring combining red cell serology and hemolysis marker determination appears advisable so as not to overlook hemolytic episodes that necessitate antigen-negative transfusion therapy.

Extraperitoneal Laparoscopic Simple Prostatectomy for large prostatic adenomas: A single-centre experience on 14 patients with significant lower urinary tract symptoms.

There are various approaches available for surgical management of large prostatic adenomas - open, laparoscopic as well as laser enucleation - but there are no available clear cut consensus or guidelines. We present our experience in Extraperitoneal Laparoscopic Simple Prostatectomy on 14 patients with large prostatic adenoma (>100 g). This is a retrospective analysis on 14 patients with large prostatic adenoma who underwent extraperitoneal laparoscopic prostatectomy (LSP) over a period of 2 years (2021-2023). All selected patients underwent extraperitoneal LSP. The case records were retrospectively reviewed and data were collected regarding age, clinical presentation, prostate size, median surgical time, intra-operative and post-operative events, pre-operative and post-operative assessment of IPSS score, Uroflowmetry and PVR values and duration of hospital stay. A total of 14 patients underwent LSP. The median age was 64.2 years and the median prostatic size was 123.25 g. Median operative time was 150 min. None of the patients required blood transfusion; mean Post-operative day (POD) for drain removal was 2.5 days. The mean duration of hospital stay was 3.5 days. Only one patient had urinary leak and vesico-cutaneous fistula which was managed conservatively by prolonged catheterisation. At 3 months follow-up, there was significant improvement in IPSS Score (mean 7.8 vs 21.3 pre-operatively), uroflow values (mean Qmax of 27.3 vs 6.8 pre-operatively) and PVR (mean 30.5 vs 350 ml pre-operatively). Laparoscopic Simple Prostatectomy is a safe and feasible approach for large prostatic adenomas with lesser morbidity and complications and satisfactory outcome.