Perioperative Blood Transfusion Requirements Research Articles

The Effect of Intravenous Tranexamic Acid on Perioperative Blood Loss, Transfusion Requirements, Verticalization, and Ambulation in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Double-Blind Study.

Background and Objectives: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is sometimes associated with significant perioperative bleeding. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing perioperative blood loss in patients undergoing primary TKA. The secondary objectives were to assess the efficacy of TXA in reducing the need for blood transfusion in these patients and to determine its effect on verticalization and ambulation after TKA. Materials and Methods: This study included 96 patients who were randomly assigned to two groups, each containing 48 patients. The study group received intravenous TXA at two time points: immediately after the induction with doses of 15 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg 15 min before the release of the pneumatic tourniquet. The control group received an equivalent volume of 0.9% saline solution via the same route. Results: TXA markedly reduced (Z = -6.512, p < 0.001) the total perioperative blood loss from 892.56 ± 324.46 mL, median 800 mL, interquartile range (IQR) 530 mL in the control group, to 411.96 ± 172.74 mL, median 375 mL, IQR 200 mL, in the TXA group. In the TXA group, only 5 (10.4%) patients received a transfusion, while in the control group, 22 (45.83%) received it (χ2 = 15.536, p = 0.001). Patients in the study group stood (χ2 = 21.162, p < 0.001) and ambulated earlier postoperatively, compared to the control group (χ2 = 26.274, p < 0.001). Patients who received TXA had a better overall postoperative functional recovery. There was a statistically significant difference in all the above results. Conclusions: TXA is an effective drug for reducing the incidence of perioperative bleeding, decreasing transfusion rates, and indirectly improving postoperative functional recovery in patients undergoing primary TKA.

O145: Autologous blood transfusion reduces the requirement for perioperative allogeneic blood transfusion in patients undergoing major hepatopancreatobiliary surgery: a retrospective cohort study.

Abstract Introduction Major hepatopancreatobiliary surgery is associated with a risk of major blood loss. We aimed to assess whether autologous transfusion of blood salvaged intraoperatively reduced postoperative allogenic transfusion in this patient cohort. Materials and Methods In this single-centre study, information from a prospective database of 501 patients undergoing major hepatopancreatobiliary resection (2015–2022) was analysed. Patients who received cell salvage (n=264) were compared with those who did not (n=237). Nonautologous (allogenic) transfusion was assessed from the time of surgery to 5 days postsurgery, and blood loss tolerance was calculated using the Lemmens–Bernstein–Brodosky formula. Multivariate analysis was used to identify factors associated with allogenic blood transfusion avoidance. Results 32% of lost blood volume was replaced through autologous transfusion in patients receiving cell salvage. Although the cell salvage group experienced significantly higher intraoperative blood loss compared with the noncell salvage group (1360 vs. 971 ml, P=0.0005), they received significantly fewer allogenic red blood cell units (0.92 vs. 1.5 units/patient, P=0.03). Correction of blood loss tolerance in patients undergoing cell salvage was independently associated with avoidance of allogenic transfusion (Odds ratio 0.05 (0.006–0.38) P=0.005). In a subgroup analysis, cell salvage was associated with significant reduction in 30-day mortality in patients undergoing major hepatectomy (1 vs. 6%, P=0.04). Conclusion Cell salvage use was associated with reduction in allogenic blood transfusion and a reduction in 30-day mortality in patients undergoing major hepatectomy. Prospective trials are warranted to understand whether the use of cell salvage should be routinely utilised for major hepatectomy.

A commentary on 'Autologous blood transfusion reduces the requirement for perioperative allogenic blood transfusion in patients undergoing major hepatopancreatobiliary surgery: a retrospective cohort study'.

A commentary on 'Autologous blood transfusion reduces the requirement for perioperative allogenic blood transfusion in patients undergoing major hepatopancreatobiliary surgery: a retrospective cohort study'.

Preoperative iron infusion does not reduce the requirement for blood transfusion in colorectal cancer surgery.

Allogeneic blood transfusions (BT) for patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery have demonstrated to increase postoperative morbidity and mortality. It has been suggested that the utilization of preoperative iron infusions may reduce the requirement for allogeneic BT in these patients. The aim of this project is to ascertain whether the preoperative use of intravenous iron is significantly associated with a reduction in perioperative blood transfusion requirement. A retrospective study of 130 patients was conducted in Blacktown Hospital, Australia. Data pertaining to patient demographics, as well as quantity of preoperative iron infusion and perioperative blood transfusion was collected. Twenty-six (20%) patients required perioperative BT. Twenty-seven underwent preoperative iron infusion, with 20 of them not requiring BT and seven requiring BT. There was no evidence to suggest preoperative iron infusion reduces blood transfusion requirement (RR 1.55, 95% CI 0.57-4.18, P=0.39). For elective procedures, no significance was also demonstrated (RR 1.20, 95% CI 0.29-4.92, P=0.80). There is no evidence suggesting that preoperative iron infusion reduces the requirement for perioperative blood transfusion in colorectal cancer surgery.

SP7.4 Autologous blood transfusion reduces the requirement for peri-operative allogenic blood transfusion in patients undergoing major hepatobiliary surgery

Abstract Aims Major HPB surgery is associated with a high risk of major blood loss. We aimed to assess whether autologous transfusion of blood salvaged intra-operatively reduces the requirement for post-operative allogenic transfusion. This is clinically important because blood is a scarce resource and allogenic transfusion is associated with the potential for morbidity. Methods We analysed data from a prospective database of 501 patients undergoing major HPB resection (2015–2022). Patients who received cell salvage (n=264) were compared with those who did not (n=237). Non-autologous transfusion was assessed from the time of surgery to 5 days post-surgery, and blood loss tolerance was calculated using the Lemmens-Bernstein-Brodosky formula. Multivariate analysis was used to identify factors associated with the need for allogenic blood transfusion. Results 32% of lost blood volume was replaced through autologous transfusion in patients receiving cell salvage. Although cell salvage patients experienced significantly higher intra-operative blood loss compared with the non-cell salvage group (1360ml vs 971ml, p=0.0005), they received significantly less allogenic red blood cell units (1.5 vs 0.92 units/patient, p=0.03). In addition, more of the non-cell salvage patients required low-level transfusion (≤3 units). Use of cell salvage and correction of blood loss tolerance are both independently associated with avoidance of transfusion. There was no difference in major morbidity, 30 or 90-day mortality between the groups. Conclusions Use of cell salvage was associated with a reduction in allogenic blood transfusion. Further work is needed to understand whether this is a cost-effective means of reducing allogenic transfusion to support the routine use of intraoperative cell salvage in major HPB surgery.

Autologous blood transfusion reduces the requirement for peri-operative allogenic blood transfusion in patients undergoing major hepatopancreatobiliary surgery: a retrospective cohort study.

Major hepatopancreatobiliary surgery is associated with a risk of major blood loss. We aimed to assess whether autologous transfusion of blood salvaged intra-operatively reduces the requirement for post-operative allogenic transfusion in this patient cohort. In this single centre study, information from a prospective database of 501 patients undergoing major HPB resection (2015-2022) was analysed. Patients who received cell salvage (n=264) were compared with those who did not (n=237). Non-autologous (allogenic) transfusion was assessed from the time of surgery to 5 days post-surgery, and blood loss tolerance was calculated using the Lemmens-Bernstein-Brodosky formula. Multivariate analysis was used to identify factors associated with allogenic blood transfusion avoidance. 32% of lost blood volume was replaced through autologous transfusion in patients receiving cell salvage. Although the cell salvage group experienced significantly higher intra-operative blood loss compared with the non-cell salvage group (1360ml vs 971ml, P=0.0005), they received significantly less allogenic red blood cell units (1.5 vs. 0.92 units/patient, P=0.03). Correction of blood loss tolerance in patients who underwent cell salvage was independently associated with avoidance of allogenic transfusion (OR 0.05 (0.006-0.38) P=0.005). In a subgroup analysis, cell salvage use was associated with a significant reduction in 30-day mortality in patients undergoing major hepatectomy (6% vs. 1%, P=0.04). Cell salvage use was associated with a reduction in allogenic blood transfusion and a reduction in 30-day mortality in patients undergoing major hepatectomy. Prospective trials are warranted to understand whether the use of cell salvage should be routinely utilised for major hepatectomy.

Efficacy of Intravenous Tranexamic Acid on Perioperative Blood Loss and Transfusion Requirement in Spine Fusion Surgery

Introduction: Blood loss associated with spine fusion surgery is a common potential cause of morbidity and often requires a blood transfusion, which subjects patients to risks of blood transfusion. Tranexamic acid is used intra-operatively to reduce bleeding in major surgeries. This study aims to evaluate its efficacy on perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirement in patients undergoing spine fusion surgery&#x0D; Methods: This prospective randomised controlled study was conducted at Department of Orthopedics of Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital between August 2015 and July 2016. Patients undergoing spine fusion surgery were randomly assigned to group A (TXA) and group B (control) equally, thirty patients in each group. TXA was given to group A in a loading dose of 10 mg/kg, followed by continuous infusion of 1 mg/kg/hr during surgery. Outcome measures included perioperative blood loss, amount of blood transfusion, and safety and adverse effects. The data were analyzed by means of SPSS version 21.0. The results were presented as mean ± SD. Differences were considered significant if the P-value was &lt;0.05.&#x0D; Results: Sixty patients (31 males, 29 females) with mean age of 39.95 years were enrolled in study, thirty patients in each group. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences between the 2 study groups with regard to age, sex, weight, preoperative hemoglobin, level of fusion as well as operative time. The amount of perioperative blood loss was significantly less in the group A versus group B, 241.274±162.819 ml vs 661.053±189.469 ml, p=0.000. There was no difference in the incidence of allogenic blood transfusion. There were no complications related to use of TXA in this study.&#x0D; Conclusion: TXA provided an effective and safe method for reduction of blood loss during and after spine fusion surgery. However, there was no difference in the incidence of perioperative allogeneic blood transfusion.

A novel predictive model of perioperative blood transfusion requirement in tuberculous spondylitis patientsundergoing posterior decompression and instrumentation.

Retrospective study. The aim of this study was to develop apredictive model for determining perioperative blood transfusion in tuberculous spondylitis patients undergoingposterior decompression and instrumentation. Tuberculous spondylitis is a common infection found in the spine. This condition may result in the need of surgical treatment, especially when there is a delay in diagnosis with inadequate antituberculosis drug treatment. The procedure results in high amount of bleeding on many occasions, leading to the higher rate of intraoperative transfusion.We develop a predictive model that can be used to determine blood transfusion requirement in spinal tuberculosis surgery. We reviewed the medical records of 83 tuberculous spondylitis patients who underwent posterior decompression and instrumentation. The clinical characteristics of the patients were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate regression test. The impact and strength of these variables was assessed to predict the probability of intraoperative red blood cell transfusion presence based on unstandardized beta, standard error, receiver operating characteristic, and confluence of sensitivity and specificity curve analyses. Furthermore, validation of this newly proposed predictive scoring system was performed using a set of 45 patients. The factors that significantly affect the need of blood transfusion during posterior spondylitis tuberculosis surgery were BMI (p = 0.005), pre-operative Hb (p < 0.001), number of affected segments (p = 0.042), and duration of surgery (p = 0.003). Our predictive model showed good sensitivity and specificity values based on a large area under the curve (0.913) and strong Pearson's r testing (correlation coefficient of 0.752). Validation set also resulted a large area under the curve (0.905) and strong correlation coefficient of 0.713. BMI, pre-operative Hb, number of affected segments, and duration of surgery became the significant factors which correlated to the presence of red blood cell transfusion in patients undergoing posterior spondylitis tuberculosis surgery. This predictive scoring system can be used to further adjust blood matching and inventory, determine intraoperative blood management, and ensure the safety of surgery in a comprehensive manner.

The Effect of Tranexamic Acid and Controlled Hypotension on Perioperative Blood Loss in Craniosynostosis Surgery.

Open cranial vault reconstruction is the standard technique of craniosynostosis correction that may cause significant blood loss. The current study aimed at comparing the effect of tranexamic acid (TXA), controlled hypotension, and their combination on perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirement in craniosynostosis surgery. The present randomized, double-blind clinical trial was conducted on 75 infants referred for craniosynostosis surgery during 2017 - 2018. Ten minutes before the start of surgery, 10 mg/kg of TXA was administered intravenously to patients in the first group (TXA group). In the second group, patients were subjected to the controlled hypotension anesthesia (CHA) using intravenous remifentanil 0.1 μ/kg (CHA group). In the third group, the patients underwent CHA similar to that of the second group, along with intravenous injection of 10 mg/kg of TXA (CHA-TXA group). Then, patients' mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), total blood loss, and transfusion volume were evaluated and recorded. The results of the present study revealed that although the changes in MAP and HR parameters over time (three hours after surgery) were significant in all three groups, the lowest decrease was observed in the CHA-TXA group (P-value < 0.05). In addition, the total perioperative blood loss in the CHA-TXA group with the mean of 181.20 ± 82.71 cc was significantly less than the total perioperative blood loss in the CHA and TXA groups with the means of 262.00 ± 104.04 cc and 212.80 ± 80.75 cc, respectively (P-value < 0.05). Moreover, the transfusion volume in the CHA-TXA group with the mean of 112.40 ± 53.50 cc was significantly lower than the transfusion volume in the CHA and TXA groups with the means of 174.00 ± 73.93 cc and 160.63 ± 59.35 cc, respectively (P-value < 0.05). In contrast, the total blood loss and transfusion volume were not significantly different between the CHA and TXA groups (P-value > 0.05). According to the results of the present study, although the administration of TXA alone could effectively prevent blood loss and was associated with fewer transfusion requirements, the combination of this approach with hypotensive anesthesia resulted in more reduction in perioperative blood loss and transfusion volume as well as better hemodynamic stability.

Timing and safety of hip fracture surgery in patients on direct-acting oral anticoagulants

BackgroundMany geriatric patients presenting for emergency hip fracture surgery are on direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) most of which are not easily reversible. A safe policy was required to reduce delays to surgery. Prior to institution of our hospital's protocol in January 2021, most of these patients had surgery after 48 h following the last dose of DOAC due to concerns about increased perioperative blood loss. MethodsThis was a prospective closed loop audit of the protocol-surgery within 24 h from last dose of DOAC (if creatinine clearance >50 ml/min) with administration of 1-g of tranexamic acid at anesthesia induction. 131 eligible patients (DOAC, n = 22; no anticoagulation, n = 109) between January–June 2021 who had emergency hip fracture surgery were identified. Primary outcome measures were peri-operative blood loss, transfusion requirements and policy compliance. Secondary outcome measures were 30-day mortality, thrombotic complications and wound bleeding. ResultsCompliance with surgical timing and tranexamic acid administration were 55% and 81% respectively after the second audit cycle. The mean estimated blood loss (EBL) in the DOAC group versus the non-anticoagulated control group was 500 ml and 330 ml respectively. The difference between these groups was statistically significant at an alpha level of 5% (P = 0.0115, 95% CI 38.48–299.16). The difference for intra-operative (RR 3.43; 95% CI 1.68–7.01) and post-operative blood transfusion (RR 2.10; 95% CI 1.23–3.58) for the 2 groups was also statistically significant. However, there was no case of massive blood transfusion in both groups. The DOAC group had a lower risk for 30-day mortality (RR 0.71; 95% CI 0.09-5.46). There was no major thrombotic complication in the DOAC group. ConclusionThis audit has shown that this protocol is safe although clinicians should anticipate some degree of increased intra-operative blood loss. We will recommend continuation of this policy with sustained safety monitoring in order to reduce delays to surgery.

Tranexamic acid in pertrochanteric fractures: a retrospective analysis of perioperative outcomes after fixation with a proximal femoral nail

BackgroundTreatment of pertrochanteric femoral fractures is often associated with significant blood loss. It has already been demonstrated that the administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) for endoprosthetic procedures reduces blood losses and leads to a decreased frequency of postoperative complications. The aim of this study is to demonstrate whether the administration of TXA as part of osteosynthesis treatment for pertrochanteric fractures using a proximal femoral nail reduces perioperative blood losses and haemorrhage-related complications.MethodsIn a two-centre retrospective cohort study, 1 g TXA i.v. was administered preoperatively to 294 patients who had suffered from pertrochanteric femoral fractures. The subjects were compared clinically to a historical control group who did not receive TXA (nonTXA). Outcomes were evaluated on the basis of perioperative blood loss, transfusion requirement, and occurrence of complications.ResultsThe TXA group showed evidence of a reduction in blood loss (TXA = 0.97 ± 0.47 l; nonTXA = 1.06 ± 0.47 l; p = 0.004) and a lower frequency of transfusion (TXA = 20%; nonTXA = 31%; p = 0.032) as compared to the nonTXA group. However, evidence of this therapeutic effect could only be demonstrated at one of the centres on subgroup comparison between the two centres. At the second centre, the data did not show a significant difference. A trend could be seen towards a reduction in postoperative renal failure. No complications occurred resulting from the administration of tranexamic acid.ConclusionPreoperative administration of TXA does not lead to an increased rate of thromboembolic complications when applied for treatment of pertrochanteric femoral fractures. Evidence of a positive effect could be seen in principle in relation to the reduction in perioperative blood loss and the frequency of transfusion. The difference in effect between the two centres remains to be clarified: for this reason, it is possible to assume that further factors influencing the efficacy of TXA administration are at play which were not taken into account in this study.

Safety and efficacy of perioperative tranexamic acid infusion in acetabular fracture fixation: A randomized placebo-controlled double-blind prospective study

IntroductionOpen reduction and internal fixation of acetabular fracture is associated with significant blood loss. Although Tranexamic acid (TXA) infusion effectively reduces perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirements in elective orthopedic surgery, its efficacy in major orthopedic trauma surgery is controversial. Material and methodsSixty-three patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation of acetabular fracture were randomized into either TXA (n = 36) or placebo (n = 27) group. TXA group received a bolus dose of TXA (10 mg/kg) 15 min prior to incision, followed by another similar dose after 3 h of surgery. The placebo group received the same volume of normal saline similarly. All patients were operated on by a single pelviacetabular surgeon with a uniform perioperative protocol. The intraoperative blood loss, drain output, the number of blood transfusions, postoperative hemoglobin (Hb) drop, and hematocrit (Hct) drop were calculated. ResultsBoth groups were similar in relation to age, sex, BMI, preoperative Hb, the timing of surgery, fracture pattern, operative time, and surgical approaches. The mean postoperative Hb was 10.35 ± 1.36 gm% in TXA group and 9.74 ± 1.98 gm% in placebo group (p-value 0.158). There were no differences in intraoperative blood loss (438.11 ml vs. 442.81, p=.947), drain output (131.94 ml vs. 129.63, p=.870), and blood transfusion (8 patients vs. five patients, p=.719) between the groups. The drop in Hb and Hct in the postoperative period was also statistically not significant between the groups. ConclusionThere is no significant reduction in blood loss and blood transfusion with the use of intravenous Tranexamic acid in open reduction and internal fixation of acetabular fractures.

Role of DOAC plasma concentration on perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirements in patients with hip fractures.

There is an ever-increasing number of hip fracture (HF) patients on direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC). The impact of DOAC plasma level prior to HF surgery on perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirements has not been investigated so far. In this retrospective study of HF patients on DOACs admitted to the AUVA Trauma Center Salzburg between February 2015 and December 2021. DOAC plasma levels were analysed prior to surgery. Patients were categorized into four DOAC groups: Group A < 30ng/mL, Group B 30-49ng/mL, Group C 50-79ng/mL, and Group D ≥ 80ng/mL. Haemoglobin concentration was measured upon admission, prior to surgery, after ICU/IMC admission, and on day 1 and 2 post-surgery. Difference in the blood loss via drains, transfusion requirements and time to surgery were compared. A total of 155 subjects fulfilled the predefined inclusion criteria. The median age of the predominantly female patients was 86 (80-90) years. Haemoglobin concentration in Group D was lower upon admissions but did not reach statistical significance. The decrease in haemoglobin concentration over the entire observation time was comparable between groups. Blood transfusion requirements were significantly higher in Group D compared to Group A and B (p = 0.0043). Time to surgery, intra- and postoperative blood loss via drains were not different among groups. No strong association between the DOAC plasma levels and perioperative blood loss was detected. Higher transfusion rates in patients with DOAC levels ≥ 80ng/mL were primarily related to lower admission haemoglobin levels. DOAC concentration measurement is feasible and expedites time to surgery.

Intravenous iron supplementation treats anemia and reduces blood transfusion requirements in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting-A prospective randomized trial.

Study Objective:Preoperative anemia results in two- to sixfold increased incidence of perioperative blood transfusion requirements and reduced postoperative hemoglobin (Hb) level. This prospective study was designed to investigate the effect of preoperative intravenous infusion of iron on Hb levels, blood transfusion requirements, and incidence of postoperative adverse events in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting.Design:Prospective randomized trial.Setting:Academic university hospital.Patients:Eighty patients (52–67 years old) underwent coronary artery bypass grafting and received either iron therapy or saline infusion preoperatively.Interventions:Patients were randomly allocated to iron or placebo groups. In the iron group, patients received a single intravenous dose of ferric carboxymaltose (1000 mg in 100 mL saline) infused slowly over 15 min 7 days before surgery. In placebo group, patients received a single intravenous dose of saline (100 mL saline) infused slowly over 15 min 7 days before surgery.Measurements:Patients were followed up with regards to incidence of anemia, Hb level on admission, preoperatively, postoperatively, 1 week and 4 weeks after discharge, aortic cross-clamp time, the number of packed red blood cells (pRBCs) units, the percentage of reticulocytes pre–postoperatively and 1 week later, hospital stay and intensive care unit (ICU) stay length, and the incidence of postoperative complications.Main Results:Iron therapy was associated with lower incidence of anemia 4 weeks after discharge (P < 0.001). Hb level was significantly higher in the iron group compared to the placebo group preoperatively and postoperatively, and 4 weeks after discharge (P < 0.001). Iron therapy resulted in shorter hospital and ICU stay (P < 0.001) and shorter aortic cross-clamp time, reduced pRBCs requirements postoperatively. Percentage of reticulocytes was significantly higher in placebo group than in iron group postoperatively and 1 week after discharge and the incidence of postoperative complications was similar to the placebo group.Conclusions:Preoperative IV iron infusion is a safe and feasible way to manage preoperative anemia. Preoperative administration of IV iron is associated with a higher postoperative Hb level, shorter hospital and ICU stay, and reduced perioperative red blood cell transfusion requirements with insignificant difference in incidence of postoperative complications.

Effect of Obesity and Hypertension on Blood Loss and Blood Transfusion Requirements in Primary Elective Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Clinical Study

Introduction: Identifying risk factors of operative blood loss is imperative toward establishing an effective blood management implementation strategy and further minimize the requirement for perioperative blood loss and transfusion. Aim: To investigate whether the factors like obesity and hypertension affect blood loss and transfusion requirements in primary elective Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA). Materials and Methods: A prospective clinical study was conducted at Shalby Hospitals in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, from November 2017 to November 2019, on 91 patients recruited for primary elective TKA. The subjects were divided into two groups, i.e, group A (normotensive and non obese; n=46) and group B (Hypertensive and obese; n=45). Charlson-Deyo comorbidity score were given to each patient as a measure of surgical risk. Data on intraoperative and postoperative blood loss, blood parameters (drop in haemoglobin, haematocrit value), and incidence of transfusion rates were recorded and assessed. All patients had standardized protocols of anesthesia, postsurgical and rehabilitation care protocols following surgery. Fisher’sexact test, Chi-square test, and student’s t-test were used for statistical analysis. Pearson’s correlation was performed to identify factors associated to blood loss. The p-value &lt;0.05 was considered significant. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0 was used. Results: The intraoperative, postoperative and total blood loss (drop of haemoglobin and haematocrit) were significantly greater in the hypertensive and obese patients (p-value &lt;0.001). The immediate postoperative day 1 haemoglobin and day 1 and 2 haematocrit were significantly better in the normotensive and non obese patients (p-value &lt;0.001). Significantly greater number of hypertensive and obese patients required blood transfusion (p-value=0.045). There was a positive correlation between intraoperative blood loss and operative time in both groups (RA=0.04, p-value=0.74; RB=0.09, p-value=0.52) although statistically insignificant. Hypertensive and obese patients required longer hospitalization (p-value &lt;0.0001). Three patients from group B were diagnosed to develop pulmonary embolism while admitted in hospital which was managed successfully by intensivists without any fatality. Conclusion: Hypertension and obesity were associated with greater blood loss and transfusion requirement compared to non obese and normotensive patients undergoing primary elective TKA.

Temporary 12-Hour Drain Clamping versus 3-Hour Drain Clamping in Simultaneous Bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a procedure that has a risk of perioperative blood loss and allogeneic blood transfusion. The purpose of the present study was to compare the perioperative blood loss and transfusion rate between the 3-hour interval clamping and 12-hour interval clamping of closed suction drainage after simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty (SBTKA). A total of 122 SBTKAs were enrolled in this retrospective study. A 3-hour clamping protocol was applied in 53 SBTKAs and a 12-hour clamping protocol was applied in 69 SBTKAs. The amount of perioperative blood loss, transfusion requirements, postoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, the lowest hemoglobin and hematocrit levels during hospitalization, readmission within 90 days, and clinical outcomes were compared between the 3-hour clamping group and the 12-hour clamping group. The 12-hour clamping group had fewer patients requiring transfusion (26.1%, 18/69) than did the 3-hour clamping protocol group (49.1%, 26/53) (p = 0.008). The 12-hour clamping group had a lower amount of estimated blood loss (1,426.9 ± 421.5 mL) than did the 3-hour clamping protocol group (1,882.1 ± 445.6 mL) (p < 0.001). The 12-hour clamping group showed higher hemoglobin and hematocrit levels (both p < 0.001) on postoperative day 5 than did the 3-hour clamping group. The lowest hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were higher in the 12-hour clamping group than in the 3-hour clamping group (p = 0.039 and p = 0.016, respectively). Within 1 postoperative month, there were 2 cases of wound dehiscence in each group (p = 0.585). But, at 1 year after the operation, no serious complications occurred in the two groups. Compared to the 3-hour clamping protocol, the 12-hour clamping protocol significantly reduced transfusion requirements, estimated blood loss volume, and hemoglobin and hematocrit levels after SBTKA. We suggest that 12-hour temporary clamping should be considered for reducing transfusion rates.

Effect of Two Different Tranexamic Acid Doses on Blood Loss in Head and Neck Cancer Surgery: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled Study.

Background and aimHead and neck cancer is frequent, and surgeries pose more significant morbidity and mortality due to multitudinal causes; heavy blood loss and transfusion are among them. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is known to stabilize the micro clots hence controlling excessive blood loss. The present study aimed to compare perioperative blood loss with two different doses of TXA and placebo to find the effectiveness and optimal dose.MethodsWith ethical approvals and informed consent, the present prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled study was conducted in a teaching institute from May 31, 2018, to Dec 28, 2019. Patients undergoing elective head and neck cancer (HNC) surgeries were included. Preoperative Hb < 7 gm% or > 16 gm%, known coagulopathy, anticoagulant therapy, contraindications to TXA, intraoperative torrential or blood loss due to arterial injury were excluded. Group T-1 received TXA 10mg/kg, T-II received 15 mg/kg, while the control group (Gr-C) received equal volume normal saline. Data about demography, surgical time, intraoperative and postoperative blood loss, and transfusion were collected and compared. SPSS software was used for analysis; p-value <0.05 was considered significant.ResultsNinety patients were screened, 84 completed the study. All three groups were similar in demographics. The median blood loss with 25th -75th percentile in group C, T-I, and T-II groups were 762.5 (513.5-1193), 541.5 (296.5-787), and 536.0 (180.5 - 879) mL, respectively; p: 0.025. There was a significant difference between the control group and T-I (p-value: 0.0153), and control and T-II (p-value: 0.0248), but an insignificant difference between T-I and T-II (p-value: 0.706). 5 (17.85%) in each of T-I and T-II required transfusion, whereas 14 (50%) in the control group required it; p < 0.011). No major clinically significant related to study drugs were noted.ConclusionCompared to placebo (normal saline), preoperative administration of TXA in bolus significantly reduced perioperative blood losses and transfusion requirement in patients undergoing HNC surgery as estimated using the Hb-based method. A bolus dose of doses of 10mg/kg and 15 mg/kg is equally effective.

Impact of Intraoperative Hypothermia on Transfusion Requirements in Patients With Pelvic and Acetabular Trauma.

To explore the association between intraoperative hypothermia and perioperative blood loss and blood transfusion requirements in patients with operative pelvic and acetabular fractures. Retrospective review. Single, Level 1 trauma center in Atlanta, Georgia. Three hundred seventy-four patients who underwent surgical fixation of an acetabular fracture and/or pelvic ring injury at a single Level 1 trauma center during the years 2013-2017. Estimated blood loss during surgery (EBL, mL), drain output (mL) on postoperative day 1 (POD1), and rate of postoperative packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusion (%). A significant association was found between intraoperative hypothermia and postoperative transfusion requirement (P = 0.016). The rate of postoperative blood transfusion was 42% for patients with intraoperative hypothermia compared with 28% for controls. In a subgroup analysis of patients presenting with an admission acidosis, the rate of postoperative transfusion was significantly increased to more than 4 times as likely when intraoperative hypothermia was present, even after controlling for admission hemoglobin, Injury Severity Score, and rate of preoperative transfusion (OR 4.4; P = 0.018). For patients with pelvic trauma who present with an admission acidosis, intraoperative hypothermia is an independent risk factor for postoperative blood transfusion. This information is clinically important given the modifiable nature of intraoperative patient temperature and the known complications and sequelae associated with increased transfusion rates. Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

1484 Tranexamic Acid Use to Decrease Blood Loss in Primary Shoulder and Elbow Replacement: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an inexpensive, commonly used antifibrinolytic agent that has been shown to significantly reduce perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirements after total hip and knee replacement. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesise the latest evidence regarding the effects of TXA on blood loss in total shoulder replacement (TSR) and total elbow replacement (TER). We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL from inception to 03 September 2020 for randomised controlled trial (RCTs) and observational studies. Our primary outcome was blood loss, and secondary outcomes included the need for blood transfusion and venous thromboembolic (VTE) complications. Four RCTs and five retrospective cohort studies (RCS) met eligibility criteria for TSRs, but none for TERs. RCT data determined that TXA administration significantly decreased estimated total blood loss, postoperative blood loss, change in haemoglobin (Hb) and total Hb loss when compared to placebo. RCS data demonstrated significant association between TXA administration and decreased in postoperative blood loss, change in Hb, change in Hct and length of stay. This meta-analysis demonstrates that TXA administration in primary TSR significantly decreases blood loss compared with placebo and is associated with lower blood loss and shorter length of stay compared with no treatment with no increase in VTE complications. TXA administration should be part of a wider blood management strategy to minimise perioperative blood loss and blood transfusion requirements in patients undergoing TSR. Further research is needed to demonstrate if a similar treatment benefit exists in patients undergoing TER.

Reducing Blood Transfusions in Primary Total Hip Replacement Patients: Effectiveness of Near-patient Testing and a Dedicated Preoperative Anemia Clinic.

Objective Preoperative anemia in orthopedic patients is associated with higher allogeneic blood transfusion rates and poorer outcomes. Up to 25% of the patients listed for major orthopedic surgery have some degree of anemia. Good perioperative patient blood management is essential to reduce the sequelae of anemia and the need for transfusions. We assessed the efficacy of rapid near-patient testing in conjunction with a dedicated preoperative anemia clinic for screening and treating primary total hip replacement (THR) patients for anemia. Methods A comparison of overall allogeneic blood transfusion rates was made for patients undergoing primary total hip replacement before and after the implementation of near-patient testing and of a dedicated preoperative anemia clinic over 1 year. A comparison was also performed between anemic patients who were referred to the clinic with those who were not referred. Preoperative hemoglobin levels, allogeneic blood transfusion rates and clinic treatment for 1,095 patients were reviewed. Results There was a significant decrease in transfusion rates in patients undergoing primary THR from 10.0 to 6.2% ( p < 0.05; χ2 test) after the implementation of near-patient testing and of a dedicated preoperative anemia clinic pathway. The allogeneic blood transfusion rate for anemic patients who were treated in the clinic was 6.7% compared with 26.9% for patients who were anemic preoperatively but were not treated in the clinic ( p < 0.05; Fisher exact test). On average, treatment in the pathway increased the hemoglobin of the patients by 20 g/L, from 104 g/L to 124 g/L ( p < 0.001). Conclusions Near-patient testing, in conjunction with a dedicated preoperative anemia clinic, reduces perioperative allogenic blood transfusion requirements for patients undergoing primary THR by providing rapid identification and effective treatment of preoperative anemia.