Transfusion Management Research Articles

Assessment of factors influencing physicians’ intention to prescribe transfusion using the theory of planned behavior

BackgroundBlood shortage is a persistent problem affecting Taiwan’s health-care system. The theory of planned behavior (TPB) has been commonly used in studies of health advocacy. The purpose of this study was to develop a questionnaire measuring clinicians’ intention to prescribe transfusion based on the TPB.MethodA questionnaire comprising 15 items for assessing clinicians’ intention to prescribe blood transfusion was developed, and it collected demographic characteristics, tested patient blood management (PBM) and perceived knowledge of PBM. Furthermore, the questionnaire contained four subscales related to the TPB. A total of 129 clinicians participated in this pilot study between July and December2020. Item analysis and exploratory factor analysis were conducted to examine the validity and reliability of this measurement instrument.ResultsThe results indicated no statistically significant correlations between the demographic characteristics and PBM test scores. Regarding perceived knowledge, the results of a one-way analysis of variance revealed that the effect of age, hierarchy of doctors, and education level were significant. In terms of subjective norms, a significant effect on education level was noted [t (129) = 2.28, p < 0.05], with graduate school graduates receiving higher scores than college graduates. An analysis of variance demonstrated the effects of hierarchy, education level, and medical specialty on perceived behavioral control. The results of the regression analyses revealed that perceived knowledge (β = 0.32, p < 0.01) and subjective norms (β = 0.22, p < 0.05) were significantly related to clinicians’ behavioral intentions.ConclusionsThis study revealed that factors affecting clinicians’ blood transfusion management can be explained using the TPB-based questionnaire. This study demonstrated that physicians’ perceptions of whether most people approve of PBM and their self-assessment of their PBM knowledge affect their intentions to proceed with PBM. According to this finding, a support system among physicians must be established and maintained to increase physicians’ confidence in promoting PBM.

ABO blood group discrepancies in blood donor and patient samples at a tertiary care oncology centre: analysis and serological resolution

IntroductionIn serological testing, determination of ABO grouping requires both antigen typing for A and B antigens and screening of serum or plasma for A and B antibodies. Lack of corroboration between the results of the cell and serum groupings identifies a discrepancy. Analysis of ABO blood group discrepancies was performed to determine the incidence of these discrepancies among healthy blood donors and oncology patients. Materials and methodsABO discrepancies found during testing of blood samples from blood donors and patients in an oncology centre in the period from January 2015 to December 2018 were analysed. ABO blood grouping was performed using the column agglutination test. Detailed serological workups were carried out to resolve discrepancies. ResultsDuring the study period, a comprehensive analysis was conducted on a large dataset comprising 76,604 blood donor samples and 134,964 patient samples. Of these samples, 117 ABO discrepancies were identified with 13 occurring in blood donor samples and 104 in patient samples. The results demonstrated discrepancies caused by weakened/missing antibodies, weakened/missing antigens, panagglutination and miscellaneous factors in the blood donor samples, with percentages of 0%, 38%, 8%, and 31%, respectively. In patient samples, the percentages were 24%, 27%, 26%, and 15%, respectively. ConclusionWeakened/missing antigen discrepancies were the prevalent type in both blood donor and patient samples. For accurate blood group reporting and management of transfusion needs of patients, a complete serological workup is vital to resolve any blood group discrepancies.

The Year in Coagulation and Transfusion: Selected Highlights from 2022

This is an annual review to cover highlights in transfusion and coagulation in patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery. The goal of this article is to provide readers with a focused summary of the most important transfusion and coagulation topics published in 2022. This includes a discussion covering the management of anemia and red blood cell transfusion, the management of factor Xa inhibitors, updates in coagulation testing, updates in the use of factor concentrates, advances in platelet therapy, advances in anticoagulation management of patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and other forms of mechanical circulatory support, and advances in the diagnosis and management of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.

Transfusion thresholds in acute coronary syndromes.

Anemia is prevalent in patients with acute coronary syndromes. In this setting, there is uncertainty and controversy surrounding the optimal transfusion strategy for managing anemia. The goal of this review is to summarize the current clinical evidence, guidelines, and future directions for managing transfusion in acute coronary syndromes. There is limited evidence from randomized trials evaluating restrictive versus liberal transfusion in patients hospitalized with and/or for acute coronary syndromes. The results from these studies suggest clinical equipoise between transfusion strategies for short term outcomes, and a trend toward favoring a liberal strategy for long term major adverse cardiac events. There is inconsistency across clinical practice guidelines with respect to the optimal strategy for managing anemia and transfusion in acute coronary syndromes due to insufficient evidence. More evidence is urgently needed to conclusively establish the optimal strategy for transfusion management in the setting of acute coronary syndromes. These data will directly inform harmonization of clinical practice guidelines. Future investigations should explore alternative strategies to hemoglobin for quantifying the degree of anemic stress for personalizing transfusion therapy, the effects on functional outcomes, and managing anemia following hospital discharge.

Same-gender differences in perioperative complications and transfusion management for lower limb arthroplasty

IntroductionTotal hip (THA) and knee arthroplasty (TKA) are surgical interventions for patients with primary and posttraumatic osteoarthritis. The present clinical investigation compared gender differences in THA and TKA.MethodsData from 419 patients following primary THA and TKA were collected. The occurrence of systemic and surgery-related complications, the units of blood transfused, and the change in Hb were investigated. Hb was collected preoperatively and at 1, 2, 4 and 7 days postoperatively. Statistical analysis was performed using the software IBM SPSS 28.ResultsThere was no significant difference in surgery-related and general complications in men between THA and TKA. A significant difference between THA and TKA in systemic complications in women was observed. No significant difference between THA and TKA in related to surgery-related complications was evidenced. In men, no difference in Hb progression was observed. In women, a significant Hb drop was evidenced (p = 0.03). The rate of blood transfusion units in women was significantly greater in TKA than in THA (p = 0.001). No statistically significant difference was observed in men in the rate of transfusion between THA and TKA.ConclusionPerioperative care should be organized differently for women and men. Furthermore, a differentiation between the procedures for each sex could prevent the occurrence of perioperative complicated courses.

Viscoelastic testing: Critical appraisal of new methodologies and current literature.

United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved viscoelastic testing (VET) methodologies have significantly changed in the last 10 years, with the availability of cartridge-based VET. Some of these cartridge-based methodologies use harmonic resonance-based clot detection. While VET has always allowed for the evaluation of real-time clot formation, cartridge-based VET provides increased ease of use as well as greater portability and robustness of results in out-of-laboratory environments. Here we review the use of VET in a variety of clinical contexts, including cardiac surgery, trauma, liver transplant, obstetrics, and hypercoagulable states such as COVID-19. As of now, high quality randomized trial evidence for new generation VET (TEG 6s, HemoSonics Quantra, ROTEM sigma) is limited. Nevertheless, the use of VET-guided transfusion algorithms appears to result in reduced blood usage without worsening of patient outcomes. Future work comparing the new generation VET instruments and continuing to validate clinically important cut-offs will help move the field of point-of-care coagulation monitoring forward and increase the quality of transfusion management in bleeding patients.

Analysis of gender differences with traditional posterior stabilized versus kinematic designs in total knee arthroplasty

IntroductionTotal knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a good treatment for end-stage knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Approximately 60% of the patients are females, and 40% are males. This study analyzed pre- and postoperative angle differences in the range of motion (ROM), and the occurrence of complications with traditional posterior stabilization versus kinematic TKA in relation to gender.MethodsData from 434 patients with primary cemented total knee arthroplasty from 2018 to 2021 were collected. Alpha and beta angles were determined pre- and postsurgery. The ROM was collected pre- and postoperatively and during follow-up. Additionally, perioperative complications, revision rate, and blood transfusion management were investigated.ResultsThe pre- and postoperative alpha-angle between men and women was significantly different, as was the level of alpha-angle correction between men and women (p = 0.001; p = 0.003). Same-gender differences in pre- to postoperative alpha-angles between traditional and kinematic TKA were shown (women (w): p = 0.001; men (m); p = 0.042). High postoperative alpha angles led to less ROM in traditional TKA for women (p = 0.008). No significant gender differences in ROM, perioperative complications, or revision surgery and transfusion rates were found.ConclusionDespite high gender differences in pre- and postoperative angles, only female patients with traditional arthroplasty and high postoperative alpha angles showed less ROM in the follow-up. This leads to the assumption that gender-related pre- and postoperative angle differences, and the degree of angle correction, do not influence the ROM or perioperative occurrence of complications. Both designs present safe procedures for both genders with a wide spectrum of axis deformities.

Transfusion management in thalassemia.

This review describes the current challenges and recommendations in the transfusion management of thalassemia patients. In addition, it reviews the components of blood safety and blood product modification in special populations. Adverse transfusion reactions are described as are some of the newer technologies being utilized to reduce potential transfusion-associated pathogens. Lastly, research in blood storage and in manufactured blood is briefly described.

Assessing Malaysian Nurses' Knowledge of Blood Transfusion Procedures and Identifying Knowledge Gaps: A cross-sectional study

This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the knowledge of 316 nurses in a Malaysian public hospital regarding blood transfusion procedures. Convenience sampling was used to select nurses involved in patient care. Data collection employed a validated questionnaire with 33 questions across four sections. Descriptive analysis using SPSS revealed knowledge gaps, particularly in transfusion and adverse reaction management. Findings showed 56.3% with good knowledge, 42.7% with moderate knowledge, and 0.9% with insufficient knowledge. The study emphasizes the importance of targeted education and continuous training to enhance nurses' transfusion-related knowledge and ensure safe practices. Limitations include scope and self-reported data.

International Survey on Perioperative Management of Patients With Infective Endocarditis

To estimate the current practice in the perioperative management of patients undergoing cardiac surgery due to infective endocarditis. A prospective, open, 24-item, web-based cross-sectional survey. Online survey endorsed by the European Association of Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology and Intensive Care (EACTAIC). Members of the EACTAIC. None. A total of 156 responses from 44 countries were received, with a completion rate of 99%. The response rate was 16.6%. Most respondents (76%) practiced cardiac anesthesia in European hospitals, and most respondents stated that a multidisciplinary endocarditis team was not established at their center, that cardiac anesthesiologists appeared to be involved infrequently in those teams (36%), and that they were not involved in decision-making on indication and timing of surgery (88%). In contrast, the cardiac anesthesiologist performed intraoperative antibiotic therapy (62%) and intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (90%). Furthermore, there was a relative heterogeneity concerning perioperative monitoring, as well as for coagulation and transfusion management. This international survey evaluated current practice among cardiac anesthesiologists in the perioperative management of patients with infective endocarditis and the anesthesiologist's role in multidisciplinary decision-making. Heterogeneity in treatment approaches was identified, indicating relevant knowledge gaps that should encourage further clinical research to optimize treatment and postoperative outcomes in this specific population.

Improving nurses' blood transfusion knowledge and skills

The World Health Organization (2019) has determined that patient safety is a global public health challenge. In UK clinical areas, policies and procedures are in place for the safe prescribing and delivery of blood and blood product transfusions, yet patient safety incidences continue. Undergraduate nurse education and training may provide the underlying knowledge to practitioners, while postgraduate standalone training sessions support skill development. However, over time, without regular experience, competence will diminish. Nursing students may have little exposure to transfusion practice and COVID-19 may have exacerbated this challenge with a reduction in placement availability. The use of simulation to support theory with follow-up and ongoing drop-in training sessions may help to inform practitioners and improve patient safety in the management and delivery of blood and blood product transfusion.

Improving blood product management in placenta accreta patients with severe bleeding: institutional experience

BackgroundPlacenta accrete spectrum (PAS) is a significant risk factor for postpartum hemorrhage and effective blood product management is critical in ensuring patient safety. In PAS patients undergoing cesarean section (CS) blood transfusion management guided by the combined clinical experience of the anesthesiologist and surgeon with point-of-care coagulation testing appears safe and effective. We describe and evaluate our experience and identify potential areas for improvement with blood product management in this patient population. MethodsA retrospective chart review of peri-operative demographic, anesthetic, and obstetric data was conducted for all patients with PAS undergoing CS between 2012 and 2018 at our center. To facilitate a practical evaluation of blood product management, we divided patients into two groups based on the severity of bleeding. ResultsA total of 221 parturients with PAS underwent CS, with 133 in group 1 requiring excessive amounts of transfusion and 88 in group 2 requiring management similar to other uncomplicated CS cases. There were no deaths or instances of disseminated intravascular coagulation, and intensive care unit admission occurred in five cases (2.2%). Patients in group 1 had higher mean nadir values of intra-operative hemoglobin and platelet count. We observed a high rate of missing data for peri-operative measurement of lactate and fibrinogen, PAS grade documentation, and temperature monitoring. ConclusionGiven no significant morbidity or mortality, clinical judgment in experienced centers appears safe for the management of PAS patients undergoing CS. The adoption of an institutional protocol and point-of-care coagulation testing could decrease over-transfusion and associated complications.

Transfusion management during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for extended indications: a narrative review

Stefano Tigano, Chiara Vitiello, Mark Vincent D’Alesio, Filippo Sanfilippo, Marinella Astuto, Antonio Arcadipane, Gennaro Martucci

Anemia management and transfusion strategy in internal medicine units: Less is more

Blood transfusion is one of the most overused procedures, especially in elderly patients. Despite the current transfusion guidelines recommending a restrictive transfusion strategy in stable patients, the clinical practice varies according to physicians' experience and implementation of patient blood management. This study aimed to evaluate the anemia management and transfusion strategy in anemic elderly hospitalized and the impact of an educational program.We enrolled ≥ 65-year-old patients who presented or developed anemia during admission to a tertiary hospital's internal medicine and geriatric units. Patients with onco-hematological disorders, hemoglobinopathies and active bleeding were excluded. In the first phase, anemia management was monitored. In the second phase, the six participating units were divided into two groups and two arms: Educational (Edu) and non-educational (NE). During this phase, physicians in the Edu arm underwent an educational program for the appropriate use of transfusion and anemia management. In the third phase, anemia management was monitored.Comorbidities, demographic and hematological characteristics were similar in all phases and arms. The percentages of transfused patients during phase 1 were 27.7% in NE and 18.5% in the Edu arm. During phase 3, it decreased to 21.4% in the NE and 13.6% in the Edu arm. Hemoglobin levels at discharge and after 30 days were higher in the Edu group despite reduced use of blood transfusion.In conclusion, a more restrictive strategy was comparable or superior to the more liberal one in terms of clinical outcomes, with the advantage of saving red blood cell units and reducing related side effects.

Challenges in the transfusion management of a 15-month-old pediatric patient with Bombay blood group phenotype

Bombay blood group phenotype is often mistyped as O group which can lead to hemolytic transfusion reactions. There are a very few case reports of Bombay blood group phenotype in pediatric age group. Herein, we report an interesting case of Bombay blood group phenotype in a fifteen-month-old pediatric patient who presented with features of raised intracranial pressure and required an emergency surgery. The Bombay blood group was detected on detailed immunohematology work up which was further confirmed by molecular genotyping. The challenges faced in developing countries for transfusion management of such a case have been discussed.

Effect of Prophylactic Fibrinogen Concentrate In Scoliosis Surgery (EFISS): a study protocol of two-arm, randomised trial

IntroductionFibrinogen is one of the essential coagulation factors. Preoperative lower plasma fibrinogen level has been associated with higher blood loss. Scoliosis surgery presents a challenge for the anaesthetic team, one...

Reverse diastolic flow of the fetal middle cerebral artery associated with placental chorangiomatosis and asymptomatic concealed placental abruption

Reverse diastolic flow of the fetal middle cerebral artery is a rare, yet ominous finding which has been associated with adverse perinatal outcomes including: intracranial hemorrhage, growth restriction, fetal-maternal hemorrhage, severe anemia, hydrops, hepatic anomaly, subsequent stillbirth, and early neonatal death. We report a case in which following notation of a nonreassuring fetal heart rate at 32 weeks' gestation, sonographic documentation of persistent reverse diastolic flow of the fetal middle cerebral artery was noted in association with sonographic findings of vascular placental dysmorphology and an asymptomatic concealed placental abruption. Subsequent fetal heart rate tracing consistent with uteroplacental insufficiency led to immediate Cesarean birth of an anemic yet nonacidotic, nonhypoxic neonate, who did well following management of respiratory distress syndrome and partial exchange transfusion. Placental abruption was confirmed at delivery. Histopathology of the placenta confirmed the presence of localized chorangiomatosis ("wandering" chorangioma). The association of reverse diastolic flow of the fetal middle cerebral artery, placental chorangiomatosis and placental abruption has not been reported previously. We conclude that in the presence of prenatal sonographic findings of placental dysmorphology and or placental abruption, insonation of the fetal middle cerebral artery should be performed to assess the possibility of increased peak systolic velocity and possible reverse diastolic flow, both associated with fetal anemia and increased likelihood of an adverse perinatal outcome.

Transfusion management of Africans with RHD variants in China.

The presence of D variant among minorities could produce a higher rate of alloimmunization observed in patients from this group. This is partly due to the ethnic and racial specificity of RHD variants and the limited availability of Rh-matched blood donors. Approximately half a million African migrants in China carrying distinct Rh blood type composition have presented to the health care system with an imperative safety requirement of blood transfusion among 1.3 billion Chinese individuals. We depict the clinically significant RHD alleles among African migrants living in China and identify the genetic similarities and disparities to Chinese. We discussed practical strategies to manage the unique transfusion needs of African migrants in China.

Cerebral revascularization surgery reduces cerebrovascular events in children with sickle cell disease and moyamoya syndrome: Results of the stroke in sickle cell revascularization surgery retrospective study.

Recent studies suggest that cerebral revascularization surgery may be a safe and effective therapy to reduce stroke risk in patients with sickle cell disease and moyamoya syndrome (SCD-MMS). We performed a multicenter, retrospective study of children with SCD-MMS treated with conservative management alone (conservative group)-chronic blood transfusion and/or hydroxyurea-versus conservative management plus surgical revascularization (surgery group). We monitored cerebrovascular event (CVE) rates-a composite of strokes and transient ischemic attacks. Multivariable logistic regression was used to compare CVE occurrence and multivariable Poisson regression was used to compare incidence rates between groups. Covariates in multivariable models included age at treatment start, age at moyamoya diagnosis, antiplatelet use, CVE history, and the risk period length. We identified 141 patients with SCD-MMS, 78 (55.3%) in the surgery group and 63 (44.7%) in the conservative group. Compared with the conservative group, preoperatively the surgery group had a younger age at moyamoya diagnosis, worse baseline modified Rankin scale scores, and increased prevalence of CVEs. Despite more severe pretreatment disease, the surgery group had reduced odds of new CVEs after surgery (odds ratio=0.27, 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.08-0.94, p=.040). Furthermore, comparing surgery group patients during presurgical versus postsurgical periods, CVEs odds were significantly reduced after surgery (odds ratio=0.22, 95% CI=0.08-0.58, p=.002). When added to conservative management, cerebral revascularization surgery appears to reduce the risk of CVEs in patients with SCD-MMS. A prospective study will be needed to validate these findings.

Improving the Performance of Blood Transfusion Management Division

Improving the Performance of Blood Transfusion Management Division