Postoperative Hemoglobin Levels Research Articles

HPB SO67 - An audit to improve the perioperative administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) to reduce the need for peri- and post-operative blood transfusion in major HPB resections

Abstract Background NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) triggered an ‘amber alert’ on 12 October 2022, meaning hospitals have been asked to put in place management plans to protect blood stocks. In line with these measures requested by NHSBT, The Royal College of Surgeons of England recommended using tranexamic acid in all adult surgical patients if more than 500ml of blood loss is likely. Results from the recent POISE-3 clinical trial confirm the quality, safety and cost-effectiveness of tranexamic acid in surgery, where more than 500ml of blood loss is anticipated. Method Patients were identified by searching the Sheffield Teaching Hospital (STH) operation note database using the key words: hepatectomy, pancreatectomy, liver resection, PPPD and pancreaticoduodenectomy. Retrospective case note review identified TXA administration, pre and postoperative haemoglobin level and blood transfusion prescription. Results 49 patients undergoing major HPB resection at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals (STH) from October 2022 to March 2023 were identified. Following the addition of a prompt in the WHO timeout pre-op checklist, a further 24 patients were reviewed. The audit compared the number of patients who received TXA, pre- and post-operative haemoglobin levels and incidence of intra- or postoperative blood transfusion (within 30 days) between the two groups. Including a prompt did not increase the likelihood of a pre-operative dose of TXA being administered. Mean change in haemoglobin and the proportion of patients requiring transfusion remained similar between the two groups. Conclusion Incorporating a preoperative prompt in the WHO timeout checklist did not improve adherence to guidelines for TXA administration in major HPB surgery. Future audits should continue monitoring these trends and investigating further strategies to optimise perioperative blood management. However, there are randomised controlled trials comparing TXA with placebo in liver resection and the recent TAC-PD trial showed that perioperative TXA did not reduce blood loss in pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Comprehensive geriatric assessment for predicting postoperative delirium in oral and maxillofacial surgery: a prospective cohort study

AbstractIdentifying high-risk patients for developing postoperative delirium (POD) is essential for optimizing the medical field’s human and financial resources through specialty-relevant geriatric assessments that can aid in establishing prehabilitation strategies. This study aims to identify geriatric screening tools to predict preoperative delirium and explore the high-risk elderly patients undergoing oral maxillofacial surgery. A comprehensive geriatric assessment encompassing 23 instruments was used to evaluate inpatients undergoing surgery under general anaesthesia, preoperatively and postoperatively. Selective intraoperative and postoperative variables were also assessed for their relation to POD occurrence. This prospective study included 90 patients (mean age 79.0 years) from August 2022 to August 2023. The POD rate in this cohort was (8.9% n = 8). The Clock-Drawing Test (CDT) was significantly associated with POD occurrence (p = 0.005). Significant associations were found between POD occurrence and operation type (p = 0.018), duration (p = 0.026), length of stay ( p = 0.002), and postoperative hemoglobin levels (p = 0.027). This study highlights the importance of comprehensive geriatric assessments in predicting POD in elderly patients. Future research should build on these findings to enhance preoperative care strategies and improve outcomes.Trial registration: German Register of Clinical Studies, DRKSID DRKS00028614.

Comparison of mean postoperative decrease in hemoglobin level in patients undergoing transurethral resection of prostate with and without preoperative intraprostatic epinephrine.

Objective: To determine and compare the mean decrease in hemoglobin level from the baseline value in patients undergoing TURP with and without preoperative intraprostatic epinephrine injection. Study Design: Analytical Cross Sectional study. Setting: Department of Urology, Allied Hospital, Faisalabad. Period: Nov 2023 to Feb 2024. Methods: After ERC approval and taking informed consent a total of 40 patients with enlarged prostate and scheduled for TURP, having comparable baseline clinical and laboratory characteristics such as age, preoperative prostate size and baseline hemoglobin were enrolled in the study & were divided in two equal numbered groups called group A and group B, each having 20 patients in it. Before performing monopolar TURP group A patients were given 200mcg of intraprostatic epinephrine injection diluted in 20ml of normal saline (10ml in each right & left lobe) under transrectal ultrasonic guidance via the transperineal route, while no such intervention was done before TURP in group B patients. One pint of whole blood was transfused to the patients of both the groups intraoperatively and blood samples were sent to laboratory on 1st post-operative day to determine the postoperative hemoglobin levels of patients of both the groups. Data was entered on the designated pro forma for analysis. Results: Postoperative hemoglobin levels were significantly higher in group A patients (mean and S.D 11.83 ±1.01 g/dl) as compared to the group B patients (mean and S.D 11.00 ± 1.06 g/dl) with a p value of 0.015, and hence drop of hemoglobin levels from the baseline values were lower in group A patients (mean and S.D 1.28 ± 0.89 g/dl) as compared to the group B patients (mean and S.D 2.31 ± 0.98 g/dl), confirming a statistically significant difference with p value of 0.001. Conclusion: The hemorrhage associated with TURP can be decreased significantly by giving preoperative intraprostatic epinephrine injection. This is a clinically safe technique that can not only reduce the postoperative blood transfusion requirements but can also allow the operating surgeon to resect more tissue within the desired time thus increasing the efficacy of TURP.

Robot-assisted Müllerian compartment resection for cervical cancer.

Radical hysterectomy has been established as the standard treatment for early stage cervical cancers. Despite numerous efforts to standardize the technique for radical hysterectomy across varying extents of tumor invasion, success has been inconsistent. Total Müllerian Compartment Resection (TMCR), an ontogenetic compartment-based oncologic surgery initially developed for open procedures by Professor Höckel, offers a standardized approach applicable to all patients with locally confined tumors. This method holds promise for achieving thorough oncologic clearance while maintaining acceptable complication rates. Moreover, robotic-assisted surgery may further reduce morbidity compared to open surgery. In this context, we provide a detailed step-by-step description of robotically assisted Total Müllerian Compartment resection (R-TMCR) for cervical cancer and present feasibility data from a cohort of 20 patients. 20 patients with stage IA1-IB2 cervical cancer, robot-assisted resection of the Müllerian embryonic compartment was undertaken. Key metrics such as operative duration, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative complication rates were meticulously recorded and analyzed. The duration of the surgery varied from 185 to 500 minutes, with intraoperative blood loss ranging between 5 mL and 300 mL. Postoperative hemoglobin levels dropped by -15 to 40 g/L from their preoperative values. Notably, there were no instances necessitating conversion to open surgery, and no intraoperative complications occurred. The rate of postoperative complications was 0%. Over the follow-up period, which averaged 18 months, there were no observed locoregional recurrences of cervical cancer, nor were there any deaths attributed to cervical cancer during this time. The application of robotic Müllerian compartment resection in the surgical treatment of cervical cancer is both safe and feasible. Utilizing robotic technology enables more precise and refined surgical outcomes. Combining embryonic compartment-based radical hysterectomy with the principles of membrane anatomy can standardize and optimize the surgical process, helping surgeons master radical hysterectomy more quickly and effectively.

Efficacy of Preoperative Autologous Blood Donation for Surgical Treatment of Thoracic Spinal Stenosis: A Propensity-Matched Cohort Study.

Thoracic spinal stenosis (TSS) surgeries necessitate a substantial amount of allogeneic blood resources. However, the efficacy of preoperative autologous blood donation (PABD) in TSS surgery has not been clearly evaluated. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of PABD for TSS surgery. This study is a retrospective study. Totally 397 patients who underwent TSS surgeries at our institution from January 2019 to June 2023 were included. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to make the PABD and Non-PABD groups comparable at baseline. Regarding outcome measures, the incidence and amount of allogeneic blood transfusion, changes in postoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, occurrence of postoperative complications, medical costs, drainage time, length of hospital stay, and postoperative neurological function were analyzed. The outcomes were compared between the matched PABD (n = 79) and Non-PABD (n = 79) groups. Univariate analysis methods were used for statistical analysis, including independent samples t-test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, and chi-square test. The incidence of allogeneic blood transfusion (8.9% vs. 25.3%, p = 0.006) and volume of intraoperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion (10.12 ± 54.52 vs. 122.78 ± 275.00 mL, p < 0.001) in the PABD group were significantly lower than those in the Non-PABD group. The PABD group had significantly higher average postoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit levels than the Non-PABD group at 1, 3, and 5 days after surgery (p < 0.05). Similarly, the PABD group exhibited a smaller reduction in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels compared with the Non-PABD group on 1, 3, and 5 days postoperatively. There were no significant intergroup differences in terms of transfusion-related complications, medical expenses, neurological function, length of hospital stay, or drainage time. Notably, PABD was an independent protective factor of allogeneic transfusion in the multivariate regression analysis (OR = 0.334, 95%CI = 0.051-0.966). PABD can effectively reduce the incidence of allogeneic blood transfusion and amount of allogeneic blood in TSS surgeries with safety. It also significantly improved the postoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Under the premise of clear indications, PABD is worth promoting for the surgical treatment of TSS.

Comparison of Mean Postoperative Hemoglobin Concentrations in Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty With Intravenous Versus Intraarticular Administration of Tranexamic Acid.

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may result in significant blood loss, but it is an effective and affordable treatment for severe osteoarthritis in the knees. While intravenous (IV) tranexamic acid(TXA) is a commonly used technique, intraarticular (IA) TXA has just recently started to gain traction in joint replacement procedures. The purpose of this research was to examine the mean postoperative hemoglobin concentration in order to assess the effectiveness of TXAadministered IVvs IAafter TKA. To assess the effectiveness of intraarticular TXA against intravenous administration. The six-month randomized controlled experiment was started from October 5, 2022, to April 4, 2023, at "the Orthopedics Department of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Lahore". The experiment included 60 patients undergoing TKA, ranging in age from 30 to 70. All members of the surgical team, including the supervisor (a consultant surgeon), assistants, and researchers, were present throughout the surgery. A high, thigh tourniquet was employed in every case, and a medial parapatellar technique was performed as well. Before the tourniquet was inflated, individuals in the intravenous group received 1 g of TXA intravenously 15-30 minutes beforehand. In the IA group, the "patient received an injection of 2 g of TXA in a 20 mL solution"straight into the joint after the prosthesis was implanted and secured. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 26), with numerical data (age, BMI, surgical length, and hemoglobin levels) presented as mean ± SD and categorical factors (gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class, anatomical side) shown as frequency and percentage. The mean postoperative hemoglobin levels were compared between groups using an independent sample t-test, with data stratified by various factors and p ≤ 0.05 considered significant. There were 60 patients in this study, ranging in age from 30 to 70. The mean±SD age was 48.73±10.35 years. Patients' mean BMI was 25.51±4.48 kg/m², with representation across underweight, normal, overweight, and obese categories. The procedure took 173.10±32.61 minutes. The overall postoperative hemoglobin concentration was significantly higher in the IA TXA group (12.12±1.32 g/dL) compared to the IV TXA group (11.11±1.10 g/dL), with a p-value of 0.02. Additionally, when stratified by age, the IA TXA group consistently demonstrated higher postoperative hemoglobin levels across all age brackets, with significant differences observed in the 51-60 years (p = 0.001) and 61-70 years (p = 0.011) groups. Gender-based comparisons showed that IA TXA was associated with higher postoperative hemoglobin levels for both males (p < 0.05) and females (p < 0.05) compared to IV TXA. This study demonstrates that IAadministration of TXAis more effective in maintaining higher postoperative hemoglobin concentrations compared to IVTXA in patients undergoing TKA. The IA TXA group consistently achieved significantly higher hemoglobin levels across various age groups and both genders, indicating superior efficacy in reducing blood loss associated with TKA. These findings suggest that IA TXA could be a preferable alternative to IV TXA for enhancing postoperative hemoglobin recovery and potentially improving patient outcomes in knee arthroplasty procedures.

Comparison of exsanguination and hemostasis devices for Limb surgery: a multicenter randomized controlled study

BackgroundExcessive intraoperative bleeding remains a challenge in limb surgeries. The exsanguination tourniquet ring has emerged as a potential solution for effective exsanguination and hemostasis. This study aims to evaluate its efficacy and safety compared to the conventional exsanguination and hemostasis approach (pneumatic tourniquet combined with Esmarch bandage).MethodsThis randomized controlled trial evaluates the exsanguination tourniquet ring’s effectiveness and safety versus the conventional approach in 220 participants undergoing various limb surgeries. Allocation included experimental and control groups, assesses through efficacy (including intraoperative and total blood loss, hemoglobin levels, and exsanguination and hemostasis effectiveness) and safety (adverse event occurrence) indicators.ResultsThe experimental group (n = 110) utilizes the exsanguination tourniquet ring, while the control group (n = 110) employs the conventional approach. As for intraoperative blood loss, the experimental group is non-inferior to the control group (p-value < 0.001). While no significant difference is found in total blood loss (for the full analysis set, p-value = 0.442; for the per protocol set, p-value = 0.976) and differences in postoperative and preoperative hemoglobin levels (for the full analysis set, p-value = 0.502; for the per protocol set, p-value = 0.928). Regarding exsanguination and hemostasis effectiveness, the full analysis set reveals significantly superior ratings in the experimental group compared to the control group (p-value = 0.002 < 0.05), while the per protocol set analysis indicates no significant difference between the groups (p-value = 0.504). As for safety indicators, adverse events related to the device are minimal in two groups, with only one severe event unrelated to the device.ConclusionsThe exsanguination tourniquet ring is an effective and safe device for intraoperative blood loss control in various limb surgeries.Trial registrationComparison of Exsanguination and Hemostasis Devices for Limb Surgery A Prospective Multicenter Randomized Controlled Study, ChiCTR2300077998, 11/27/2023.

Enhanced recovery after surgery in children with congenital scoliosis

To assess the impact of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol in children undergoing corrective surgery for congenital scoliosis. A retrospective analysis was conducted on children undergoing surgical correction for congenital scoliosis, with participants categorized into either the ERAS group or the control group. Comparative evaluations were made across clinical, surgical, laboratory, and quality of life parameters. Following propensity score matching, 156 patients were analyzed. Within the initial 3 days following surgery, the ERAS cohort demonstrated lower pain intensity and exhibited higher daily oral intake compared to their counterparts in the control group. A mere 14.1% of patients in the ERAS group experienced a peak body temperature exceeding 38.5°, illustrating a significantly lower incidence compared to the 33.3% recorded in the control group. The ERAS cohort displayed expedited timeframes for the onset of initial bowel function and postoperative discharge when contrasted with the control group. Levels of IL-6 assessed on the third day post-surgery were markedly reduced in the ERAS group in comparison to the control group. Noteworthy is the similarity observed in postoperative hemoglobin and albumin levels measured on the first and third postoperative days between the two groups. Assessments of quality of life using SF-36 and SRS-22r questionnaires revealed comparable scores across all domains in the ERAS group when juxtaposed with the control cohort. ERAS protocol has demonstrated a capacity to bolster early perioperative recovery, alleviate postoperative stress responses, and uphold favorable quality of life outcomes in children undergoing corrective surgery for congenital scoliosis.

Uterine isthmic tourniquet left insitu as a new approach for placenta previa-accreta surgery: a comparative study.

Placenta previa-accreta spectrum disorders are a cause of obstetric hemorrhage that can lead to maternal fetal mortality and morbidity. We aimed to describe the use of a uterine isthmic tourniquet left in situ as a new uterus-preserving approach for patients with placenta previa-accreta. In this retrospective comparative study, the patients who underwent surgery for placenta previa between 2017 and 2024 at our tertiary hospital were reviewed. Primary outcome of the study is to evaluate feasibility of uterine isthmic tourniquet left in situ for uterine preserving by preventing postpartum hemorrhage for patients with placenta previa-accreta. As a secondary outcome, group 1 (n=28) patients who were managed with uterine isthmic tourniquet left in place were compared with patients in group 2 (n=32) who were managed with only bilateral uterine artery ligation. This new approach uterine isthmic tourniquet technique prevented postpartum hemorrhage with a rate of 100 percent in group 1 patients, while uterine artery ligation prevented postpartum hemorrhage with a rate of 75 % in group 2. Postoperative additional interventions (relaparotomy hysterectomy, balloon tamponade application, uterine or vaginal packing) were performed for eight patients in group 2 (25 %) but not in group 1 (0 %) (p=0.015). The haemoglobin levels before caesarean section were similar in both groups (p=0.235), while the postoperative haemoglobin levels were lower in group 2 (9.69±1.37 vs. 8.15±1.32) (p=0.004). Erythrocyte suspension was given to two patients in group 1 and 12 patients in group 2 (2/28 7 % vs. 12/32 37 %, p=0.018). The uterine isthmic tourniquet left in situ technique is a safe, simple and effective for preventing postpartum hemorrhage and preserving uterus during placenta previa accreta surgery as superior to uterine artery ligation alone.

Comparative Study of Reducing Blood Loss in Total Knee Replacement with and without the Use of Tranexamic Acid, Tourniquet, and Drainage

Background: Patients who undergo total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may develop large blood loss. The intraoperative and postoperative blood loss after TKA ranges from 1500 to 1900 cc. TKA is often carried out using a tourniquet and drains to collect the shedded blood loss. However, tranexamic acid is found to decrease blood loss. Tranexamic acid is a fibrinolysis inhibitor that blocks the plasminogen, and it has been reported before that it reduces blood loss in patients undergoing TKA. However, few reports describe the effects of tranexamic acid on blood loss in patients who underwent TKA. Objectives: To study the reduction of blood loss after intravenous tranexamic acid infusion in patients undergoing TKA without the use of tourniquets or drains. Patients and Methods: We performed a total of 95 TKA in osteoarthritis patients between 2017-2018. A total of 30 patients were operated during 2017 and at that time tourniquets with drains were used with no intravenous tranexamic acid. On the other hand, a total of 45 patients were operated in the year 2018 and for those intravenous tranexamic acid was used to decrease the blood loss without the use of tourniquets or drains. For those who received tranexamic acid it was given as follows, at time of anesthesia induction a total of 1 gram tranexamic acid is infused over 10 min. At closure, another 1 gram tranexamic acid is infused over 10 min. Furthermore, Patient's demographics, preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin (Hb) levels were studied as well as the need for blood transfusion between the two groups. Results: The two groups had similar characteristics. The mean of pre and postoperative hemoglobin difference was 2.9 (SD 1.0) and 3.5 (SD 1.23) in the tourniquets and tranexamic acid groups respectively (p value = 0.041). However, postoperatively 5 (16.6%) of the tourniquets group received blood transfusion. Whereas, no one (0%) of the tranexamic acid patients needed to receive blood (p value = 0.005). Conclusion: The use of tranexamic acid may decrease the total blood loss in patients undergoing TKA. Furthermore, there is less need for blood transfusion in those who received tranexamic acid

Are Routine Postoperative Hemoglobin Tests Justified in All Patients Who Undergo Total Hip Arthroplasty Due to a Displaced Femoral Neck Fracture?

Background: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a standard treatment for a displaced femoral neck fracture in the elderly. In contemporary healthcare, there is a global shift towards fast-track treatment modalities, prioritizing early hospital discharge for patients. Consequently, routine postoperative blood tests may become redundant, offering significant time and cost savings. We aim to evaluate postoperative hemoglobin levels in trauma-related THA cases and identify patient profiles for whom these tests hold significance. Methods: A retrospective review of 176 THA procedures performed between 2018 and 2022, focusing on individuals undergoing THA for displaced femoral neck fractures. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with postoperative hemoglobin levels below 8.5 g/dL. Results: Of the 176 patients included, 109 (61.9%) were women and the mean age was 69.09 ± 8.13 (range 27 to 90) years. The majority of the patients underwent surgery within 48 hours of admission. The mean preoperative hemoglobin (Hb) level was 13.1 ± 1.4 g/dL, while the mean postoperative Hb level was 10.5 ± 1.2 g/dL. Only six patients (3.41%) exhibited postoperative Hb levels of ≤8.5 g/dL. No significant associations were found between postoperative Hb levels ≤ 8.5 and any demographic, surgical, or medical characteristics. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that routine postoperative blood count testing may not be necessary for most patients undergoing THA for displaced femoral neck fractures, particularly those without complications or significant comorbidities.

A Propensity-Matched Cohort Study of Intravenous Iron versus Red Cell Transfusions for Preoperative Iron-Deficiency Anemia.

While preoperative anemia is associated with adverse perioperative outcomes, the benefits of treatment with iron replacement versus red blood cell (RBC) transfusion remain uncertain. We used a national database to establish trends in preoperative iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) treatment and to test the hypothesis that treatment with preoperative iron may be superior to RBC transfusion. This study is a propensity-matched retrospective cohort analysis from 2003 to 2023 using TriNetX Research Network, which included surgical patients diagnosed with IDA within 3 months preoperatively. After matching for surgery type and comorbidities, we compared a cohort of patients with preoperative IDA who were treated with preoperative intravenous (IV) iron but not RBCs (n = 77,179), with a cohort receiving preoperative RBCs but not IV iron (n = 77,179). Propensity-score matching was performed for age, ethnicity, race, sex, overweight and obesity, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, essential hypertension, heart failure, chronic ischemic heart disease, neoplasms, hypothyroidism, chronic kidney disease, nicotine dependence, surgery type, and lab values from the day of surgery including ferritin, transferrin, and hemoglobin split into low (<7 g/dL), medium (7-<12 g/dL), and high (≥12 g/dL) to account for anemia severity. The primary outcome was 30-day postoperative mortality with the secondary outcomes being 30-day morbidity, postoperative hemoglobin level, and 30-day postoperative RBC transfusion. Compared with RBC transfusion, preoperative IV iron was associated with lower risk of postoperative mortality (n = 2550/77,179 [3.3%] vs n = 4042/77,179 [5.2%]; relative risk [RR], 0.63, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.60-0.66), and a lower risk of postoperative composite morbidity (n = 14,174/77,179 [18.4%] vs n = 18,632/77,179 [24.1%]; RR, 0.76, 95% CI, 0.75-0.78) (both P = .001 after Bonferroni adjustment). Compared with RBC transfusion, IV iron was also associated with a higher hemoglobin in the 30-day postoperative period (10.1 ± 1.8 g/dL vs 9.4 ± 1.7 g/dL, P = .001 after Bonferroni adjustment) and a reduced incidence of postoperative RBC transfusion (n = 3773/77,179 [4.9%] vs n = 12,629/77,179 [16.4%]; RR, 0.30, 95% CI, 0.29-0.31). In a risk-adjusted analysis, preoperative IDA treatment with IV iron compared to RBC transfusion was associated with a reduction in 30-day postoperative mortality and morbidity, a higher 30-day postoperative hemoglobin level, and reduced postoperative RBC transfusion. This evidence represents a promising opportunity to improve patient outcomes and reduce blood transfusions and their associated risk and costs.

Influence of blood loss on cerebral oxygen saturation in paediatric patients undergoing surgery for scoliosis correction: A retrospective observational study.

Surgery for congenital scoliosis correction in children is often associated with considerable blood loss. Decrease in regional oxygen saturation (rScO2) can reflect insufficient cerebral perfusion and predict neurological complications. This retrospective observational study explored the relationship between blood loss during this surgery and a decrease in rScO2 in children. The following clinical data of children aged 3-14 years who underwent elective posterior scoliosis correction between March 2019 and July 2021 were collected: age, sex, height, weight, baseline rScO2, basal mean invasive arterial pressure (MAP), preoperative Cobb angle, number of surgical segments, preoperative and postoperative haemoglobin level, percentage of lowest rScO2 below the baseline value that lasted 3 min or more during the operation (decline of rScO2 from baseline, D-rScO2%), intraoperative average invasive MAP, end-tidal carbon dioxide pressure, fluid infusion rate of crystalloids and colloids, operation time, and percentage of total blood loss/patient's blood volume (TBL/PBV). A total of 105 children were included in the study. Massive haemorrhage (TBL/PBV ≥50%) was reported in 53.3% of patients, who had significantly higher D-rScO2 (%) (t = -5.264, P < 0.001) than those who had non-massive haemorrhage (TBL/PBV <50%). Multiple regression analysis revealed that TBL/PBV (β = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.018-0.062, P < 0.05) was significantly associated with D-rScO2%. Intraoperative massive blood loss in children significantly increased D-rScO2%. Monitoring should be improved, and timely blood supplementation should be performed to ensure maintenance of the blood and oxygen supply to vital organs, improve the safety of anaesthesia, and avoid neurological complications.

Intraarticular TXA Administration with Appropriate Timing of Clamping and Appropriate Dose is More Effective Than IV Administration.

Our aim was to compare the effects of intraarticular and intravenous (IV) tranexemic acid (TXA) application on bleeding and complication rates in patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Between 2017 and 2021, 406 patients who underwent TKA with 2 g of IV TXA and retrograde 1.5 g of TXA applied through the drain were included in the study. Of the patients, 206 were in the IV TXA group. Preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin levels, drain output, BMI, ASA score, blood loss, and the number of transfused patients were recorded. Complications such as symptomatic venous thromboembolism were also recorded. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, or BMI (p = 0.68, 0.54, 0.28, 0.45). Total drain output and blood loss were significantly higher in the IV TXA group than in the intraarticular TXA group (p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001). Eighteen patients in the IV TXA group and 1 patient in the intraarticular TXA group received a blood transfusion (p < 0.0001). There was no difference between the two groups in terms of preoperative hemoglobin or platelet count (p = 0.24). However, postoperative hemoglobin level was higher in the patients who received intraarticular TXA (p=0.0005). More thromboembolism events were seen in the IV TXA group (p < 0.0001). Intraarticular TXA application reduces blood loss more than IV application, reduces the blood transfusion rate, and causes fewer complications. tranexemic acid, total knee arthroplasty, intraarticular injection, blood loss, blood transfusion.

[Translated article] Determining factors on length of stay in primary total knee arthroplasty patients using enhanced recovery protocol after surgery (ERAS) pathway

IntroductionThere is an increase in degenerative arthropathies because of the increase in the longevity of world's population, making primary knee arthroplasties a procedure to recover quality of life without pain. There are factors associated with the length of hospital stay after this procedure. ObjectiveTo determine the risk factors influencing the hospital stay during the postoperative period of patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty with an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol (ERAS). MethodsA retrospective study is carried out on patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty at an University Hospital in the period 2017–2020 using the ERAS protocol, during which 957 surgeries were performed. ResultsAverage age of 71.7±8.2years, 62.4% were women and the 77.3% were classified as ASA II. The significantly associated factors to an increased length of stay are: age (p=.001), ASA scale (p=.04), day of surgery (p<.001), blood transfusion (p<.001), postoperative haemoglobin level at 48–72h (p<.001), the time of first postoperative mobilisation to ambulate and climb stairs (p<.001), the need for analgesic rescues (p=.003), and the presence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (p=.008). ConclusionsThere are statistically significant and clinically relevant factors associated with hospital stay. Determining these factors constitutes an advantage in hospital management, in the development of strategies to improve and optimise the quality of care and available health resources.

The Importance of Cell Saver Usage in Complex Endovascular Repair of Thoraco-Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

The use of the cell saver is well-established in open aneurysm repair; however, its role in endovascular repair is yet to be determined. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of cell saver usage in patients undergoing complex endovascular procedures. Single-center retrospective cohort study, including consecutive patients undergoing fenestrated and/or branched repair for the treatment of thoracoabdominal and complex abdominal aortic aneurysms (CAAAs) between January 2019 and December 2022. The cell saver was a standard part of the intraoperative setup of these procedures, and its use was readily available. The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients, in which autologous blood collected was transfused (cell saver blood transfusion [CSBT]), alongside the useable amount obtained. Secondary endpoints included mean blood loss, postoperative hemoglobin levels, and 30-day mortality. A total of 170 patients (77.1% male, mean age 71.2±9.2years) were included, with a median blood loss of 700mL (interquartile range [IQR] 400-1,200mL). A total of 96 patients received some kind of blood transfusion (BT) (56.5%): 35 patients were (20.6%) allogenic BT, 31 patients were (18.2%) CSBT only, and 30 patients were (17.6%) a combination of both. In total, 61 patients (35.9% or 63.5% of all patients requiring BTs) received CSBT, with a median useable blood volume of 282mL (IQR, 194.5-508 mL). Thirty-day mortality was similar in both groups. Although the CSBT group had lower intraoperative hemoglobin values (9.25±1.55 vs. 10.36±1.88mg/dL; P<0.001), both groups presented similar postoperative hemoglobin (Hb) levels. Blood loss during complex endovascular repair is not insignificant. In this cohort, over 50% of included patients required some kind of BT, 32.3% of which received exclusively CSBT, while 31.3% had supplementary CSBT alongside allogenic BT. This data showcases its potential role in these repairs, paving the way for its standardization in the intraoperative setup of these complex procedures.

The effects of tourniquet use in elbow surgery: a retrospective analysis

BackgroundPneumatic tourniquets are frequently employed in extremity surgeries, aiming to enhance intraoperative visibility and minimize blood loss. While their benefits and drawbacks have been extensively studied in lower limb operations, their impact on upper limb procedures, particularly elbow surgery, remains poorly understood. This study investigates the advantages and risks associated with pneumatic tourniquet utilization in elbow surgery. MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on 183 patients who underwent elbow surgery for fractures between January 2019 and September 2023. Patients were categorized into two groups: those who underwent surgery with a tourniquet (WT) and those without a tourniquet (NT). Subgroup analyses were performed based on fracture complexity. Data collected included patient characteristics, tourniquet usage, surgical duration, pre- and postoperative hemoglobin levels, C-reactive protein levels, pain assessments, opioid administration, hospital stay duration, follow-up, complications, and revisions. Statistical analyses were used to identify significant differences and correlations. ResultsThe use of a tourniquet in elbow surgery yielded several notable outcomes. Patients in the WT group experienced significantly shorter surgical durations and hospital stays. Hemoglobin drop was lower in the WT group, indicating reduced blood loss. However, there were no significant differences in postoperative pain, opioid consumption, or complications between the WT and NT groups. Subgroup analysis revealed that the recorded differences, particularly shorter surgical durations, were more pronounced in complex fractures. ConclusionsThis study shows promising results in the use of pneumatic tourniquets in elbow surgery in terms of enhanced efficiency, reduced blood loss, and overall safety, without compromising patient outcomes. However, the potential influence of perioperative decision-making on tourniquet usage underscores the need for further research to elucidate its role and optimize its application, especially in complex elbow fractures.

The use of topical tranexamic acid in geriatric fractured hip

Background: Topical tranexamic acid (TXA) is used preoperatively to reduce blood loss. This study evaluated the effect of topical TXA on post-operative transfusion rate and haemoglobin level in geriatric patients with hip fractures. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 135 patients over 65 years old with hip fractures from June 2020 to June 2023. Their total haemoglobin mass loss, transfusion rate and thromboembolic events were compared based on the fracture type and intervention (10–15 mg/kg of topical TXA). Results: No significant differences were found in total haemoglobin mass, transfusion rate or thromboembolic events. There was no evidence of an association between the use of TXA and post-operative blood transfusion (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.27–2.52, p = 0.734) or thromboembolic events (OR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.07–9.49, p = 0.866). Conclusion: A 10–15 mg/kg topical TXA did not reduce total haemoglobin mass loss, influence transfusion needs or increase thromboembolic events or 30-day mortality.

Cross-sectional investigation of activated clotting time after administration of different intravenous heparin doses in patients undergoing on-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery

IntroductionAchieving optimal anticoagulation during coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery remains a challenge, with variations in heparin response attributed to differences in demographic and clinical factors. Deviations from the target activated clotting time (ACT) during CABG have been linked to adverse outcomes. This study aimed to assess the impact of different intravenous heparin doses on ACT in patients undergoing on-pump CABG. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted on 54 patients scheduled for CABG surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass in 2021. ACT measurements were taken 5 min after the initial bolus dose of 200 IU/kg and a secondary dose of 100 IU/kg heparin. Demographic and clinical data, including ACT measures, hemoglobin levels, bypass time, and mortality, were collected. ResultsThe study population predominantly comprised of male patients, with a mean age of 61.18 ± 8.81 years. The patients received 4 (3–4) grafts over 75 (65–80) minutes. Baseline ACT was 149.91±17.48 s, increasing to 410 (359–472) and 604 (542–679) seconds after the initial and additional heparin, respectively. Only 22.2 % of the study subjects achieved target ACT>480 s with 200 IU/kg, and the remaining 77.8 % required an additional 100 IU/kg heparin to reach the target ACT. No cases of heparin resistance, mortality, or dropouts were reported at the end of the study. Preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin levels were positively correlated (r = 0.59, p < 0.0001). ConclusionA 300 IU/kg heparin dose appears safer than lower doses for initiating cardiopulmonary bypass in on-pump CABG. Preoperative hemoglobin optimization may help minimize perioperative hemoglobin drop. Further research is needed to refine dosing strategies and personalize CABG management.

Variation in care and outcome for fragile hip fracture patients: a European multicentre study benchmarking fulfilment of established quality indicators.

Despite the availability of clinical guidelines for hip fracture patients, adherence to these guidelines is challenging, potentially resulting in suboptimal patient care. The goal of this study was (1) to evaluate and benchmark the adherence to recently established quality indicators (QIs), and (2) to study clinical outcomes, in fragile hip fracture patients from different European countries. This observational, cross-sectional multicenter study was performed in 10 hospitals from 9 European countries including data of 298 consecutive patients. A large variation both within and between hospitals were seen regarding adherence to the individual QIs. QIs with the lowest overall adherence rates were the administration of systemic steroids (5.4%) and tranexamic acid (20.1%). Indicators with the highest adherence rates (above 95%) were pre-operative (99.3%) and post-operative haemoglobin level assessment (100%). The overall median time to surgery was 22.6h (range 15.7-42.5h). The median LOS was 9.0 days (range 5.0-19.0 days). The most common complications were delirium (23.2%) and postsurgical constipation (25.2%). The present study shows large variation in the care for fragile patients with hip fractures indicating room for improvement. Therefore, hospitals should invest in benchmarking and knowledge-sharing. Large quality improvement initiatives with longitudinal follow up of both process and outcome indicators should be initiated.