Red Blood Cell Transfusion Rates Research Articles

Association between red blood cells transfusion and 28-day mortality rate in septic patients with concomitant chronic kidney disease

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) often have impaired immune function, making them more prone to infections that can lead to sepsis. The coexistence of these conditions can result in decreased hemoglobin levels and is associated with a higher mortality rate. To investigate whether the transfusion of red blood cells (RBCs) improves the prognosis of septic patients with concomitant CKD and to explore the indications for red blood cell transfusion. This retrospective cohort study utilizes data from the MIMIC-IV (v2.0) database. The study enrolled 6,604 patients with sepsis and concomitant CKD admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Propensity score matching (PSM) was applied to adjust for confounding factors. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed an association between RBC transfusion and a decreased risk of 28-day mortality (HR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.54–0.70, P < 0.001). Following a meticulous 1:1 propensity score matching analysis between the two cohorts, the matched population revealed a notable decrease in 28-day mortality within the RBC transfusion group (HR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.51–0.71; P < 0.001). Additionally, we observed that a SOFA score ≥ 5, a Base Excess (BE) value < 3, and an estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) < 30 may be considered when evaluating the potential need for RBC transfusion. This study demonstrated an association between RBC transfusion and decreased 28-day mortality in patients with sepsis accompanied by CKD. The patient’s BE value, SOFA score, and eGFR are crucial factors influencing the treatment outcome and should be considered when deciding on RBC transfusion.

A modified low-priming cardiopulmonary bypass system in patients undergoing cardiac surgery with medium risk of transfusion: A randomized controlled trial

The FUWAI-SAVE system is a modified low-priming cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) system. The study aimed to explore whether the FUWAI-SAVE system can reduce the perioperative blood transfusion and its impact on other postoperative complications during cardiac surgery. This study was a single-center, single-blind, randomized controlled trial, registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (identifier: ChiCTR2100050488). Adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB and intermediate risk for transfusion risk stratification were randomly assigned to an intervention group (FUWAI-SAVE group) or a control group (conventional group). The primary endpoint of the study was the peri-CPB red blood cell transfusion (RBC) rate. The secondary endpoints included the transfusion rate of other blood products, the amount of blood products transfused, the incidence of major complications, in-hospital mortality, and others. 360 patients were randomized from December 9, 2021, to January 30, 2023. The rate of the primary endpoint was significantly lower in the FUWAI-SAVE group compared to the control group [ OR (95%CI): 0.649 (0.424-0.994)]. Meanwhile, the amount of RBC transfusion during the peri-CPB period was significantly lower in the FUWAI-SAVE group compared to the control group, with a mean difference of -0.626 (-1.176 to -0.076) units. The occurrence rate of major complications did not differ significantly between the two groups. Among adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB, the application of the FUWAI-SAVE system significantly reduced RBC transfusion rate and amount. The FUWAI-SAVE system can be considered an important component of comprehensive blood management strategies in cardiac surgery.

Vitamin K Prescribing Trends Among Critically Ill Children Hospitalized for Sepsis: A Multicenter Observational Cohort Study.

Objective: Vitamin K (VK) is commonly prescribed for pediatric sepsis-induced coagulopathy without trial-derived evidence to support its use for this indication. The purpose of this study was to characterize national prescribing trends for VK in this population. Patients and Methods: This is a multicenter retrospective cohort study using the Pediatric Health Information System registry including children 0 to 17 years of age hospitalized for sepsis in the pediatric intensive care unit from January 2016 through December 2022. The primary outcome was overall, annual, and center-specific VK prescribing rates. Descriptive data included demographics, length of stay, and rates of VK deficiency, hepatic insufficiency, red blood cell (RBC) transfusion, venous thromboembolism (VTE), and mortality. VK prescribing trends were assessed using Joinpoint regression. Descriptive statistics employed included Wilcoxon rank-sum, student's t, and chi-square tests. Results: Of the 31 221 encounters studied, 4539 (14.6%) were prescribed VK (median center-specific rate: 14.2%; interquartile range [IQR]: 8.8-21%) with a linear annual trend decreasing from 17.3% in 2016 to 13.3% in 2022 (-0.6%/year, r2 = .661). Those prescribed VK had greater rates of hepatic dysfunction (20.5% vs 3.1%), RBC transfusion (26.5% vs 11.2%), VTE (12.5% vs 4.6%), mortality (17.1% vs 4.4%), and median length of stay (16 [IQR: 8-33] vs 8 [4-15] days) (all P < .001). VK deficiency was diagnosed in 0.2% of encounters. Conclusions: In this multicenter retrospective cohort, VK prescribing was common among critically ill children diagnosed with sepsis. Phased trials are needed to demonstrate clinical efficacy and safety for VK in this population.

The Efficacy of Tranexamic Acid in Reducing Perioperative Drainage in Cardiac Surgery with Cardiopulmonary Bypass.

Although cardiopulmonary bypass procedures remain a critical treatment option for heart disease, they come with risks, including hemorrhage. Tranexamic acid is known to reduce morbidity and mortality in surgical hemorrhage. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of tranexamic acid, which is routinely used to treat hemorrhage, in decreasing the amount of intraoperative and postoperative drainage. A total of 80 patients who underwent cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass were included in this retrospective study. Forty patients who received tranexamic acid during the operation were assigned to Group 1, while 40 patients who did not receive tranexamic acid were assigned to Group 2. Patient data were collected from the hospital computer system and/or archive records after applying exclusion criteria, and the data were recorded. Statistical analyses were then performed to compare the data. Age, sex, height, weight, body surface area, flow, and ejection fraction percentages, preoperative hematological parameters, and intraoperative variables (except tranexamic acid) were similar between the groups (P>0.05). However, there were statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of intraoperative (through the heart-lung machine) and postoperative red blood cell transfusion rates, intraoperative and postoperative bleeding drainage amounts, as well as postoperative hematocrit, hemoglobin, platelet, and red blood cell levels (P<0.05). We concluded that intraoperative and postoperative use of tranexamic acid in patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting with cardiopulmonary bypass has positive effects on hematological parameters, reducing blood product use, and bleeding drainage amount.

Characteristics of red blood cell transfusion among very preterm infants in China.

National-level data on the incidence of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions and outcomes among very preterm infants (VPIs) are lacking in China. This study aims to describe the use and variation of RBC transfusion among VPIs in China. This cohort study was conducted among 70 tertiary hospitals participating in the Chinese Neonatal Network (CHNN) from 2019 to 2020 across China. All VPIs admitted to the CHNN neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) were included. A total of 13,447 VPIs were enrolled, of whom 7026 (52.2%) received ≥1 RBC transfusions. The mean number of transfusions per infant was 2 (interquartile range [IQR] 1-4 times) and the median age at first transfusion was 15 days (IQR 3-27 days). The transfusion rate was higher in critically ill infants compared with non-critically ill infants (70.5% vs. 39.3%). The transfusion rate varied widely (13.5%-95.0%) between different NICUs. The prevalence of death, severe intra-ventricular haemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) or spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP), sepsis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), severe retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and cystic periventricular leukomalacia (cPVL) was significantly higher in the transfused group. Among non-critically ill infants, RBC transfusion was independently associated with BPD, severe ROP and cPVL. Our study, providing the first baseline data on RBC transfusions among VPIs in China, shows an alarmingly high RBC transfusion rate with significant site variations. There is an urgent need for national guidelines on RBC transfusions for VPIs in China.

Tranexamic acid reduces intraoperative red blood cell transfusion rates in craniosynostosis surgery: a 6-year retrospective analysis

Surgery for craniosynostosis in children is associated with substantial intraoperative bleeding and the need for blood transfusions. Recent studies have supported the efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing blood loss and transfusion requirements. The records of 72 patients under 18 months of age who had undergone 113 surgeries for non-syndromic craniosynostosis in a single institution for 6 years were retrospectively analyzed. The transfusion requirements in infants with and without TXA administration were compared. The concept of patient blood management before and after TXA implementation in practice was also examined. The rate of intraoperative packed red blood cells (PRBC) transfusion was significantly lower in the TXA than in the non-TXA group (26.7% vs. 83%, p < 0.001). The volume of intraoperatively transfused PRBC was also lower in the TXA group compared to the non-TXA group (mean 68.25 mL vs. 101.91 mL, p < 0.001), as was the weight-adjusted volume (mean 11.2 mL/kg vs. 15 mL/kg, p = 0.002). There were no significant differences in the rate and volumes of postoperative PRBC transfusion between groups. The volume of intraoperatively transfused PRBC was dependent on TXA administration, but not on the affected suture and type of intervention. We found that while in the pre-TXA period all patients were transfused intraoperatively, the frequency of intraoperative transfusions in the post-TXA period was reduced by 40.9% even in the patients who had not received TXA. TXA seems to effectively reduce the intraoperative transfusion requirements in children undergoing craniosynostosis surgery. The optimal blood management in this patient population remains to be further evaluated.

Current concepts in the use of cell salvage in obstetrics.

The worldwide leading cause of maternal death is severe maternal hemorrhage. Maternal hemorrhage can be profound leading to an entire loss of blood volume. In the past two decades, Patient Blood Management has evolved to improve patient's care and safety. In surgeries with increased blood loss exceeding 500 ml, the use of cell salvage is strongly recommended in order to preserve the patient's own blood volume and to minimize the need for allogeneic red blood cell (RBC) transfusion. In this review, recent evidence and controversies of the use of cell salvage in obstetrics are discussed. Numerous medical societies as well as national and international guidelines recommend the use of cell salvage during maternal hemorrhage. Intraoperative cell salvage is a strategy to maintain the patient's own blood volume and decrease the need for allogeneic RBC transfusion. Historically, cell salvage has been avoided in the obstetric population due to concerns of iatrogenic amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) or induction of maternal alloimmunization. However, no definite case of AFE has been reported so far. Cell salvage is strongly recommended and cost-effective in patients with predictably high rates of blood loss and RBC transfusion, such as women with placenta accreta spectrum disorder. However, in order to ensure sufficient practical experience in a multiprofessional obstetric setting, liberal use of cell salvage appears advisable.

Effect of Minimization of Early Blood Sampling Losses Among Extremely Premature Neonates: A Randomized Clinical Trial

To evaluate the effect of blood sampling stewardship on transfusion requirements among infants born extremely preterm. In this single-center, randomized controlled trial (RCT), infants born at <28weeks of gestation and birth weight of <1000g were randomized at 24hours of age to two different blood sampling approaches: restricted sampling (RS) vs conventional sampling (CS). The stewardship intervention in the RS group included targeted reduction in blood sampling volume and frequency and point of care testing methods in the first 6weeks after birth. Both groups received early recombinant erythropoietin from day three of age. Primary outcome was the rate of early red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in the first six postnatal weeks. A total of 102 infants (mean gestational age: 26weeks; birth weight: 756g) were enrolled. Fidelity to the sampling protocol was achieved in 95% of the infants. Sampling losses in the first 6weeks were significantly lower in the RS group (16.8ml/kg vs 23.6ml/kg, P<.001). The RS group had a significantly lower rate of early postnatal RBC transfusions (41% vs 73%, RR: 0.56 [0.39-0.81], P=.001). The hazard of needing a transfusion during neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay was reduced by 55% by RS. Mortality and neonatal morbidities were similar between the two groups. Minimization of blood sampling losses by approximately one-third in the first 6weeks after birth leads to substantial reduction in the early red blood cell transfusion rate in infants born extremely preterm and weighing <1000g at birth. http://www.ctri.nic.in (CTRI/2020/01/022 964).

A Comprehensive Patient Blood Management Program During Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Patients Over 60 Years of Age.

There is currently no consensus on the most appropriate blood transfusion strategy for older adults undergoing cardiovascular surgery. We aimed to investigate the potential benefits of the patient blood management (PBM) program specifically for advanced age patients, and to evaluate the relationship of age and PBM in cardiovascular surgery. We collected data from patients over 60 years old who underwent on-pump cardiovascular surgery. We compared transfusion and clinical outcomes between the pre-PBM and post-PBM groups using a propensity score matching method. Then, we conducted a subgroup analysis within the original cohort, specifically focusing on patients aged of 75 and above with multivariable adjusted models. Data of 9703 older adults were analyzed. Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion rates during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) (31.6% vs 13.1%, P<0.001), during the operation (50.8% vs 39.0%, P<0.001) and after the operation (5.6% vs 3.1%, P<0.001) were significantly reduced, and mortality and the risk of some adverse events were also reduced after the PBM. Subgroup analysis showed that there was no interaction between age and PBM, and advanced age (over age 75) did not modify the effect of PBM program in reducing RBC transfusion (Pinteraction=0.245), on mortality (Pinteration=0.829) and on certain complications. The comprehensive PBM program could reduce RBC transfusion without adverse outcomes in older patients undergoing CPB. Even patients over age 75 may benefit from a more stringent transfusion indication. Comprehensive blood conservation measures should be applied to optimize the blood management for older patients.

Anaemia and red blood cell transfusion in women with placenta accreta spectrum: an analysis of 38,060 cases

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) has become a significant life-threatening issue due to its increased incidence and associated morbidity and mortality. Pregnancy is often associated with states of anaemia, and severe maternal haemorrhage represents a major risk factor for red blood cell (RBC) transfusion. The present study retrospectively analyzed the prevalence of anaemia, transfusion requirements and outcome in women with PAS. Using data from the German Statistical Office pregnant patients with deliveries hospitalized between January 2012 and December 2021 were included. Primary outcome was the prevalence of anemia and administration of RBCs. Secondary outcome were complications in women with PAS who received RBC transfusion. In total 6,493,606 pregnant women were analyzed, of which 38,060 (0.59%) were diagnosed with PAS. The rate of anaemia during pregnancy (60.36 vs. 23.25%; p < 0.0001), postpartum haemorrhage (47.08 vs. 4.41%; p < 0.0001) and RBC transfusion rate (14.68% vs. 0.72%; p < 0.0001) were higher in women with PAS compared to women without PAS. Women with PAS who had bleeding and transfusion experienced significantly more peripartum complications than those who did not. A multiple logistic regression revealed that the probability for RBC transfusion in all pregnant women was positively associated with anaemia (OR 21.96 (95% CI 21.36–22.58)). In women with PAS, RBC transfusion was positively associated with the presence of renal failure (OR 11.27 (95% CI 9.35–13.57)) and congestive heart failure (OR 6.02 (95% CI (5.2–7.07)). Early anaemia management prior to delivery as well as blood conservation strategies are crucial in women diagnosed with PAS.

Ravulizumab Effectiveness in the Real World: Evidence from the International PNH Registry

Background Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare disease of uncontrolled terminal complement activation on blood cells that can cause intravascular hemolysis (IVH), major adverse vascular events (MAVEs), including thromboembolic events (TEs), and organ damage resulting in early mortality. Complement C5 inhibitors eculizumab (Ecu) and ravulizumab (Rav) are standard-of-care treatments that inhibit terminal complement activity and reduce morbidity and mortality by controlling IVH (reduction of lactate dehydrogenase [LDH]) and preventing TEs. Rav provides the same benefits as Ecu but with substantially longer half-life, improved control of terminal complement, and reduction in breakthrough intravascular hemolysis achieved via weight-based dosing, thus reducing the burden of treatment. Long-term efficacy and safety data are available for up to 20 y from trials and real-world evidence (RWE) with Ecu and up to 6 y from trials in patients (pts) treated with Rav who were naïve to C5 inhibitors or who switched from Ecu to Rav; however, RWE is limited with Rav. The objective of this analysis was to describe pt characteristics at treatment initiation, outcomes, and changes from treatment initiation in laboratory markers of pts switching to Rav from Ecu using data from the prospective, observational International PNH Registry (NCT01374360). Methods The PNH Registry is the largest global real-world database of pts with PNH and provides extensive information on the natural history of PNH, irrespective of PNH treatment status. This analysis included data from pts enrolled in the PNH Registry, with complete information for birth date, sex, enrollment date, and Ecu/Rav treatment status. Pts included in the study switched from &amp;gt;6 mos of Ecu treatment to Rav for &amp;gt;6 mos. Pts were required to have discontinued Ecu within &amp;lt;28 days of Rav initiation. Changes from Rav treatment initiation (baseline) in key laboratory values, including LDH ratio, absolute hemoglobin (Hgb) levels, and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-Fatigue) scores were analyzed descriptively. Poisson regression estimate of incidence density was used for MAVEs, TEs, and red blood cell (RBC) transfusion rates across treatment exposure during registry follow-up. High disease activity (HDA), defined as LDH ≥1.5 X upper limit of normal and ≥1 of the following: history of a MAVE (including TE), anemia (Hgb &amp;lt;10 g/dL), or physician-reported abdominal pain, dyspnea, dysphagia, fatigue, hemoglobinuria and/or erectile dysfunction, was assessed during follow-up visits. Results As of 3 April 2023, 110 pts in the International PNH Registry had switched to Rav for ≥6 mos. The median age at start of Rav treatment was 42.1 y (Q1, Q3: 33.1, 52.2 years), 50% were female, and 70% were non-Asian. Over 24 mos of follow-up time was recorded for &amp;gt;50% of pts from the analysis population. The median time on Ecu was 6.5 y and Rav was 2 y. During Ecu treatment and before Rav initiation, 20/42 (47.6%) pts had ongoing bone marrow disorder (eg, aplastic/hypoplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes). Before Ecu treatment, 24/101 (23.8%) pts had MAVEs (TE, 18/100 [18.0%] pts) and at Rav initiation, 27/109 (24.8%) pts had MAVEs (TE, 21/109 [19.3%] pts). Over time, Rav maintained IVH and disease control, with minimal change across time points for LDH ratios, absolute Hgb levels, and FACIT-Fatigue scores ( Table 1). Rates of clinical events (ie, MAVEs, TEs, and RBC transfusions) decreased over time from untreated time to time on Ecu treatment and were lowest when pts were treated with Rav ( Table 2). There were no reported MAVEs and TEs in pts treated with Rav. At Rav initiation, 6/65 pts still had HDA; only 1/6 had HDA at last follow-up visit while on Rav. No meningococcal infections or deaths were reported during Rav treatment. Four pts had discontinued Rav treatment (physician decision, switched to other anti-complement treatment, lack of efficacy). Conclusions These data from the International PNH Registry, one of the largest global real-world datasets of Rav-treated pts, confirmed that improvements in clinical outcomes observed with Ecu, including control of IVH, Hgb level, RBC transfusion rates, and fatigue, were maintained with Rav. HDA resolved in most pts when switching from Ecu to Rav. Transfusion rates were lowest with Rav treatment. Pts treated with Rav experienced no MAVEs, TE, meningococcal infections, or deaths.

Correlation Between 6 Characteristics of Perioperative Hypothermia and Allogeneic Red Blood Cell Transfusion in Abdominal Surgery Patients

To explore the correlation between six characteristics of perioperative hypothermia and allogeneic red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in patients who underwent abdominal surgeries. Patients who underwent abdominal surgeries at West China Hospital, Sichuan University between October 2019 and July 2021 were retrospectively enrolled. A wearable wireless temperature sensor was used to continuously monitor the core body temperature of patients throughout the perioperative period. The perioperative temperature nadir, maximum temperature loss, percentage of time with hypothermia, time-weighted average temperature, area under the curve (AUC) at 36 ℃, and AUC at 37 ℃ were calculated for the period from entering the operation room to 24 hours after the end of anesthesia. The restricted cubic spline (RCS) and multiple logistic regression models were used to explore the correlation between these temperature characteristics and perioperative allogeneic RBC transfusions. A total of 3119 patients were included in the study, with an allogeneic RBC transfusion rate of 2.8%. The RCS model showed that allogeneic RBC transfusion was associated with the perioperative temperature nadir (Poverall=0.048) and AUC at 36 ℃ (Poverall=0.026) and no statistical significance was found in the nonlinear test. The association between allogeneic RBC transfusions and other temperature characteristics was not statistically significant. According to the RCS model results, cut-off points were taken to form groups based on the body temperature characteristics. Multivariate logistic regression showed that the perioperative temperature nadir<35.5 ℃ (odds ratio [OR]=2.47, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.21-5.03) and AUC at 36 ℃≥100 ℃·min (OR=2.24, 95% CI:1.09-4.58) were associated with increased demand for allogeneic RBC transfusion. Hypothermia is associated with an increased need for perioperative allogeneic RBC transfusions and has a cumulative effect over time. For patients at high risk of bleeding, attention should be paid to the prevention of perioperative hypothermia and reduction in the cumulative exposure to hypothermia, thereby reducing the need for blood transfusion.

Low-Volume Acute Normovolemic Hemodilution Does Not Reduce Allogeneic Red Blood Cell Transfusion in Cardiac Surgery in the Modern Era of Patient Blood Management: A Propensity Score-Matched Cohort Study

Patients undergoing cardiac surgery often require blood transfusions, which are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Patient blood management (PBM) strategies, including acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH), have been implemented to minimize allogeneic transfusion requirements. Older studies suggested that ANH is associated with reduced transfusions; however, its effectiveness in the modern era of PBM remains unclear. This was a retrospective cohort study. The study was held at a single university hospital. 542 patients who underwent elective cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) using low-priming-volume circuits between January 2017 and March 2022. Patients who received ANH were matched with those who did not receive ANH, using propensity scores. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who received perioperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion. Of the 542 eligible patients, 49 ANH cases were propensity-score matched to 97 controls. The median ANH volume was 450 mL (IQR, 400-800 mL). There was no significant difference in perioperative RBC transfusion rates between the 2 groups (24.5% in the ANH group vs 30.9% in the control group, p=0.42). The odds ratio for perioperative RBC transfusion in the ANH group versus the control group was 0.72 (95% CI, 0.32-1.55, p=0.42). Low-volume ANH was not associated with a significant reduction in perioperative allogeneic RBC transfusion during cardiac surgery with CPB using low-priming-volume circuits. The benefits of low-volume ANH in reducing the requirement for RBC transfusion in the modern era of PBM may be smaller than reported previously.

Association of body mass index with perioperative blood transfusion and short-term clinical outcomes in patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting

BackgroundFew studies have considered outcomes among low body mass index (BMI) cohorts undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). This study aims to investigate the effects of low body weight on blood transfusion and perioperative outcomes in patients undergoing isolated CABG.MethodsThis retrospective study enrolled consecutive cases from a single-center between January 2008 and December 2018. Low body weight/underweight was defined as a BMI < 18.5 kg/m², while normal BMI was defined as 18.5 ≤ BMI < 24.0 kg/m². The primary endpoint was the perioperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion rate. Secondary endpoints include platelet and plasma transfusion rates, transfusion volume for all blood components, hospital length of stay, and the occurrence of adverse events including prolonged mechanical ventilation, re-intubation, re-operation, acute kidney injury, and 30-day all-cause mortality.ResultsA total of 7,620 patients were included in this study. After 1:1 propensity score matching, 130 pairs were formed, with 61 pairs in the on-pump group and 69 pairs in the off-pump group. Baseline characteristics were comparable between the matched groups. Low body weight independently increased the risk of RBC transfusion (on-pump: OR = 3.837, 95% CI = 1.213–12.144, p = 0.022; off-pump: OR = 3.630, 95% CI = 1.875–5.313, p < 0.001). Moreover, within the on-pump group of the original cohort, BMI of < 18.5 kg/m² was independently correlated with increased risk of re-intubation (OR = 5.365, 95% CI = 1.159 to 24.833, p = 0.032), re-operation (OR = 4.650, 95% CI = 1.019 to 21.210, p = 0.047), and 30-day all-cause mortality (OR = 10.325, 95% CI = 2.011 to 53.020, p = 0.005).ConclusionBMI < 18.5 kg/m² was identified as an independent risk factor for increased perioperative RBC transfusion rate in patient underwent isolated CABG with or without CPB. Only on-pump underweight patients in the original cohort exhibited an increased risk for re-intubation, re-operation, and 30-day all-cause mortality. Physicians and healthcare systems should consider these findings to improve management for this population.

Using blood wisely in oncology patients: An institutional experience implementing Choosing Wisely Canada restrictive transfusion practices.

382 Background: Using Blood Wisely is a national Choosing Wisely Canada (CWC) initiative that challenges hospitals to benchmark themselves on evidence-informed restrictive transfusion strategies, with the aim to decrease inappropriate red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in Canada. We previously assessed transfusion practices among oncology patients at BC Cancer Vancouver during a 12-month period. Here we present the results of a second audit, after implementation of quality improvement (QI) interventions. Methods: BC Cancer Vancouver RBC transfusion records were obtained for the periods of October 2019-September 2020 and April 2021-March 2022. The percentage of transfusions that were single-unit or for hemoglobin (Hg) ≤80 g/L were measured to assess adherence to CWC targets of ≥65% and ≥80%, respectively, for these metrics. QI interventions were implemented after the first audit, including staff education (grand rounds presentation, sitewide email bulletin) and direct engagement of ordering physicians by nursing staff. Uni- and multivariate analyses were used to test associations between patient characteristics and transfusion outcomes. Results: Single-unit transfusions increased from 41% in inpatients (49/120) and 12% in outpatients (69/586) in the first audit, to 86% (126/146) in inpatients ( P&lt;0.001) and 34% (170/495) in outpatients ( P&lt;0.001) in the second audit. Transfusions for Hg ≤80 g/L increased from 79% (95/120) in inpatients and 66% (384/586) in outpatients, to 93% (136/146) in inpatients ( P=0.001) and 78% (384/495) in outpatients ( P&lt;0.001). Patient factors associated with restrictive transfusion practices included inpatient status and having a hematological malignancy. Conclusions: In the face of fluctuating RBC shortages, interventions aimed at high-use populations like oncology patients are crucial to reducing transfusion overuse. Through education and prescriber engagement, we successfully reduced the rate of inappropriate RBC transfusions at our institution and achieved the status of a designated Using Blood Wisely Hospital.[Table: see text]

Heterogeneity Among Institutional Red Blood Cell Transfusion Rates With Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

Heterogeneity Among Institutional Red Blood Cell Transfusion Rates With Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

Combined spinal and epidural anaesthesia for open radical cystectomy: A controlled study.

To evaluate the feasibility of loco-regional anaesthesia and to compare perioperative outcomes between loco-regional and standard general anaesthesia in patients with bladder cancer undergoing open radical cystectomy (ORC). A single-surgeon cohort of 60 consecutive patients with bladder cancer undergoing ORC with an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol between May 2020 and December 2021 was analysed. A study group of 15 patients operated on under combined spinal and epidural anaesthesia was compared with a control group of 45 patients receiving standard general anaesthesia. Intraoperative outcomes were haemodynamic stability, estimated blood loss, intraoperative red blood cell transfusion rate, and anaesthesia time. Postoperative outcomes were pain assessment 24 h after surgery, time to mobilisation, return to oral diet, time to bowel function recovery, length of stay and rate of 90-day complications. No patients required conversion from loco-regional to general anaesthesia. All patients in both groups were haemodynamically stable. No significant differences between groups were observed for all other intraoperative outcomes, except for a shorter anaesthesia time in the study versus control group (250 vs. 290 min, p = 0.01). Pain visual score 24 h after surgery was significantly lower in the study versus control group (0 vs. 2, p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed for all other postoperative outcomes, with a comparable time to bowel function recovery (5days in each group for stool passage), and 90-day complication rate (46.6% vs. 42.2% for the study vs. control group, p = 0.76). Our exploratory, controlled study confirmed the feasibility, safety and effectiveness of a pure loco-regional anaesthesia in patients with bladder cancer undergoing ORC. No significant differences were observed in intra- and postoperative outcomes between loco-regional and general anaesthesia, except for a significantly shorter anaesthesia time and greater pain reduction in the early postoperative period for the former.

Trends, complications, and readmission of allogeneic red blood cell transfusion in primary total hip arthroplasty in china: a national retrospective cohort study.

Decrease in allogenic red blood cell (RBC) transfusion rates following total hip arthroplasty (THA) has been reported in the United States, but whether other countries share the same trend remains unclear. Additionally, the relation of allogenic RBC transfusion to the risk of complications in THA remains controversial. Using the Chinese national inpatient database, the current study aimed to examine trends, complications, charges, and readmission patterns of allogeneic RBC transfusion in THA. Patients undergoing primary THA between 2013 and 2019 were included, and then stratified into the transfusion and the non-transfusion group based on the database transfusion records. A generalized estimating equation model was used to investigate trends in transfusion rates. After propensity-score matching, a logistic regression model was used to compare the complications, rates and causes of 30-day readmission between two groups. A total of 10,270 patients with transfusion and 123,476 patients without transfusion were included. Transfusion rates decreased from 19.11% in 2013 to 9.94% in 2019 (P for trend < 0.001). After matching, no significant differences in the risk of of in-hospital death (odds ratio [OR], 4.00; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.85-18.83), wound infection (OR 0.72; 95%CI 0.45-1.17), myocardial infarction (OR 1.17; 95%CI 0.62-2.19), deep vein thrombosis (OR 1.25; 95%CI 0.88-1.78), pulmonary embolism (OR 2.25; 95%CI 0.98-5.17), readmission rates (OR 1.07; 95%CI 0.88-1.30) and readmission causes were observed between two groups. However, the transfusion group had higher hospitalization charges than the non-transfusion group (72,239.89 vs 65,649.57 Chinese yuan [CNY], P < 0.001). This study found that allogeneic RBC transfusion in THA was not associated with the increased risk of complications and any-cause readmission. However, the currently restrictive transfusion policy should be continued because excessive blood transfusion may increase the socioeconomic burden.

Institutional Variability in Red Blood Cell Transfusion With Coronary Bypass in a Statewide Database

BackgroundThe decision to perform transfusion is common but varies among centers and surgeons. This study looked at variables associated with red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in a statewide database. The study aimed to understand discrepancies in transfusion rates among hospitals and to establish whether the hospital itself was a significant variable in transfusion, independent of variables known to affect transfusion in patients undergoing cardiac surgical procedures. MethodsThe Maryland Cardiac Surgery Quality Initiative is a consortium of centers in the state. Patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting from January 2018 to June 2020 from 10 centers in Maryland were included. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine probability of RBC transfusion with covariates, including age, preoperative hemoglobin value, The Society of Thoracic Surgeons predicted risk of mortality, emergency status, preoperative adenosine diphosphate receptor blocker use, sex, body mass index, and off-pump status. ResultsA total of 5343 patients were included and had an overall RBC transfusion rate of 30.3% (range, 11.3%-55.8%). There was significant variability in the incidence of RBC transfusion among hospitals (χ2 = 604.7; P < .001). After covariate adjustment, a significant effect of hospital on transfusion remained (Wald = 547.3; P < .001). Hospital variation in RBC transfusion was not correlated with hospital variation in median age (P = .467), hemoglobin (P 0 855), The Society of Thoracic Surgeons predicted risk of mortality (P = .855), or sex (P = .726). ConclusionsIn a statewide analysis, wide variability in transfusion rates was observed, with hospital-specific management strongly associated with RBC transfusion. This study suggests that RBC transfusion may be affected by the culture and practices of an institution independent of clinical and demographic variables.

Trends and predictions of perioperative transfusion and venous thromboembolism in hepatectomy using a North American Registry.

Studies indicate a link between allogeneic blood transfusion and venous thromboembolism (VTE) post-major surgery. Analyzing trends and predictors of these outcomes after hepatectomy can inform risk management. The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was used for a retrospective analysis. Primary outcomes were perioperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion and VTE events within 30 days of hepatectomy. Seven-year trends and predictors were evaluated. Among 29,131 hepatectomy patients, transfusion rates showed no statistically significant decreasing trends (p = .122) from 2014 to 2020 (18.13%-16.71%), while VTE rates showed a downward trend over the 7 years (p = .021); 17.2% received RBC transfusion, with higher rates in surgeries lasting ≥282 min (median: 220 min). Calculated RBC mass [hematocrit (%) × body weight (kg) × 10-5 × 70/ (body mass index/22)] at or below 1.5 L substantially increased transfusion odds. VTE was reported postoperatively in 2.6% of cases more frequently in longer cases involving transfusions. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of VTE escalated from the shortest operative time to the longest (3.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.37-4.22). The adjusted odds of VTE doubled for transfused patients compared to non-transfused patients (aOR, 2.19; 95% CI, 1.86-2.57). Rates of RBC transfusion and VTE rates hepatectomy have minimally changed in the recent years. VTE prevention is challenging in extended surgeries at increased risk of bleeding and RBC transfusions. Patient-level data on coagulation and thromboprophylaxis can potentially refine risk assessment for postoperative VTE.