Postoperative infection and natural killer cell function following blood transfusion in patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery

The Association Between Perioperative Red Blood Cell Transfusions and 1-Year Mortality After Major Cancer Surgery: An International Multicenter Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusions in patients undergoing surgery for cancer are given to treat anemia or acute hemorrhage. Evidence indicates that pRBC transfusions are associated with poor perioperative and oncological outcomes. The ARCA-1 (Perioperative Care in the Cancer Patient-1) study was designed to test the association between perioperative pRBC transfusions and postoperative morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing cancer surgery. The primary hypothesis of our study was that perioperative pRBC transfusions have a negative impact on postoperative morbidity and 1-year mortality.

METHODS

ARCA-1 was an international multicenter prospective observational cohort study. Participating centers enrolled a minimum of 30 consecutive adult patients with cancer who underwent surgery with curative intent. The primary end point was all-cause mortality 1 year after major cancer surgery. Secondary end points were rates of perioperative blood product use, 1-year cancer-specific mortality, overall survival, and 30-day morbidity and mortality. We performed a propensity score matching analysis to adjust for selection bias. A multivariable logistic regression model was fitted to estimate the effects of significant covariates on 1-year mortality, cancer-related mortality, and overall survival.

RESULTS

A total of 1079 patients were included in the study. The rate of perioperative pRBC transfusions was 21.1%. Preoperative comorbidities, including anemia, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score of III to IV, a history of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), myocardial infarction, stroke, need for dialysis, history of blood transfusions, and metastatic disease were statistically significantly more frequent in transfused patients compared to nontransfused patients. The 1-year mortality rate was higher in transfused patients before (19.7% vs 6.5%; P < .0001) and after (17.4% vs 13.2%; P = .29) propensity score matching. 1-year mortality was 1.97 times higher in transfused than in no-transfused patients (odd ratio [OR], 1.97; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13-3.41). The odds of 1-year cancer mortality for patients who had perioperative pRBCs was 1.82 times higher (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 0.97-3.43) compared to those who did not receive perioperative pRBC transfusion. The effect of perioperative pRBC transfusion on overall survival was also significant (hazard ratio [HR], 1.85; 95% CI, 1.15-2.99). Transfused patients also had a higher rate of 30-day postoperative mortality before (3.5% vs 0.7%; P = .0009) and after propensity score matching (4.2% vs 1.8%; P = .34).

CONCLUSIONS

This international, multicenter observational study showed that perioperative pRBC transfusion was associated with an increased mortality risk.

Fellowship-Trained Surgeons Experience a Learning Curve Performing Revision Total Joint Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA) and revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) require considerable surgical proficiency, but are frequently delegated to the least experienced surgeons. This study examined the influence of surgeon experience on revision outcomes.

METHODS

Prospective data on confirmed aseptic rTHAs (n = 122) and rTKAs (n = 195) performed by 4 fellowship-trained surgeons in the same practice were retrospectively analyzed. Surgeons were grouped based on years in practice (inexperienced [IE] first 2 years, early experience [EE] 4 to 6 years, and senior experience [SE] 15 to 17 years). Procedure duration, estimated blood loss (EBL), and reoperation rates were compared, controlling for potential covariates.

RESULTS

Procedure durations varied based on surgeon experience for 3 of 4 rTHA diagnoses (P ≤ 0.001). Relative to the SE surgeon, procedure duration was 80.0 (95% confidence interval 61.7 to 98.4, P < 0.001) minutes longer for IE surgeons and 30.9 (95% confidence interval 17.5 to 44.3, P < 0.001) minutes longer for the EE surgeon. Procedure durations also varied based on surgeon experience for 3 of 4 rTKA diagnoses (P < 0.001), with the longest durations for IE surgeons. Procedure durations varied based on the interaction of surgeon experience, patient age, and body mass index. The EBL did not differ in rTHA based on surgeon experience (P = 0.978), but did differ for rTKA (P = 0.004). There were 25% of rTHAs performed by IE surgeons compared to 15.5% for the EE surgeon and 3.6% for the SE surgeon that underwent reoperation within a year of the index procedure (P = 0.064), with significantly more reoperations for the same indication among IE and EE surgeons (P = 0.046).

CONCLUSIONS

Complex procedures completed by less experienced surgeons may result in longer procedures, higher EBL, and more early reoperations. Study findings implicate a learning curve for revision arthroplasty that continues for several years, warranting consideration of existing patient allocation and referral patterns.

The effect of platelet-to-lymphocyte ratıo (PLR) and glasgow prognostıc score (GPS) on recurrence, and survıval ın patıents undergoıng lobectomy for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

Tumor markers are indicators that can be used not only for cancer diagnosis but also for determining prognosis. Unfortunately, there is currently no tumor marker that reliably predicts the prognosis of lung cancer. In this study, we investigated the prognostic impact of the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS), known as inflammation markers in peripheral blood, in patients who underwent resection for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of a total of 3300 patients who underwent surgery for NSCLC between 2010 and 2020. Among these patients, 250 met the inclusion criteria of lobectomy, pT1-T2N0 stage, and histology of adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. Preoperative albumin, C-reactive protein (CRP), preoperative PLR, and postoperative 5th-day PLR values were determined from patient's peripheral blood data. The impact of these values on postoperative recurrence and survival was investigated. GPS was calculated based on preoperative CRP and albumin values, and patients were divided into 3 groups: 0 (mild), 1 (moderate), and 2 (severe). The relationship between preoperative GPS and survival was analysed. Among the included patients, 155 (62%) had adenocarcinoma and 95 (38%) had squamous cell carcinoma. A total of 185 (74%) patients had pT1 tumors, while 65 (26%) had pT2 tumors. During the postoperative follow-up period, local recurrence was observed in 28 (11.2%) patients and distant metastasis in 51 (20.4%) patients. The overall mortality rate was 19.6%. The 5-year survival rates for pT1 and pT2 tumors were 80.4% and 72.5%, respectively. Significant associations were found between preoperative PLR, postoperative PLR, and recurrence (p = 0.005 and p = 0.011). The expected overall survival (OS) was 103.4 months in the mild GPS group, 91.8 months in the moderate GPS group, and 50 months in the severe GPS group. The relationship between GPS groups and OS was statistically significant (p = 0.005). Preoperative analysis of PLR and GPS may provide prognostic value in NSCLC patients who undergo surgical resection. Our study provides a rationale for further investigation of peripheral blood immune markers for prognostic purposes.

Impact of Chart-Derived Frailty Index on 1-Year Mortality After Radical Cystectomy in 1004 Patients with Bladder Cancer

BACKGROUND

Radical cystectomy is a major urological procedure with high morbidity and mortality. The chart-derived frailty index (CFI), a measure of preoperative frailty, can be calculated by using demographic and routine laboratory variables. We assessed the impact of CFI on 1-year mortality after radical cystectomy.

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients with bladder cancer who underwent radical cystectomy between 2007 and 2021. The CFI was calculated as the sum of the presence of the following parameters: age > 70 years, body mass index < 18.5 kg/m2, hematocrit < 35%, albumin < 3.4 g/dL, and creatinine > 2.0 mg/dL. Patients were divided into those with low (0-2) and high (3-5) CFI. The 1-year, all-cause and cancer-specific mortalities after radical cystectomy were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 1004 patients, 914 (91.0%) had a low CFI and 90 (9.0%) had a high CFI. The 1-year, all-cause mortality in the low and high CFI groups was 12.0% and 27.8%, respectively (P < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that high CFI (P < 0.001), tumor stage (P = 0.003), and red blood cell transfusion amount (P < 0.001) were significantly associated with 1-year, all-cause mortality after radical cystectomy. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated significantly different 1-year, all-cause and cancer-specific mortalities after radical cystectomy between patients with a high CFI and those with a low CFI (log-rank test, both P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

High CFI is associated with higher 1-year mortality after radical cystectomy, suggesting that the CFI can effectively predict mortality after radical cystectomy.

Increased Severity of Anemia Is Associated with Postoperative Complications following a Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery

BACKGROUND

Anemia is a modifiable risk factor for postoperative complications following surgery. This study aimed to determine the impact of preoperative anemia severity on 30-day postoperative complications following adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery.

METHODS

Adults undergoing spinal fusion for ASD from 2012 to 2018 were identified in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Patients were substratified into 3 cohorts-non-anemia, mild anemia, and moderate-to-severe anemia-based on World Health Organization definitions. We assessed 30-day wound, cardiac, pulmonary, renal, and thromboembolic complications, as well as sepsis, mortality, postoperative transfusions, extended length of stay, and reoperation. Bivariate analyses and multivariable logistic regression were performed.

RESULTS

Of 2173 patients, 1694 (78%) had no anemia, 307 (14%) had mild anemia, and 172 (8%) had moderate or severe anemia. Following adjustments, patients with mild anemia were more likely to have postoperative blood transfusions (odds ratio [OR] 1.80, P < 0.001) and extended length of stay (OR 1.43, P < 0.001). Patients with moderate-to-severe anemia were at increased risk of organ space infection (OR 3.27, P = 0.028), death (OR 13.15, P = 0.001), postoperative blood transfusion (OR 2.81, P < 0.001), and extended length of stay (OR 3.02, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

We found a stepwise and approximately two-fold increase in the odds ratio of postoperative transfusion and length of stay with increasing severity of anemia. Moderate-to-severe anemia was associated with increased odds of death and organ space infection. Patients with moderate-to-severe anemia should be medically optimized before ASD surgery.

Risk Factors for Infection Following Operative Treatment of Traumatic Upper Extremity Amputation Injury

Background: Identification of the risk factors for surgical site infection (SSI) can be a straightforward and cost-effective measure to reduce or prevent the occurrence of SSI. However, there are no studies that revealed risk factors for SSI for traumatic upper extremity amputation. The aim of this study is to investigate the risk factors that promote SSI after surgery for traumatic upper extremity amputation using a large nationwide database.

Methods: We used data from the Japan Trauma Data Bank. Diagnoses were defined using the Abbreviated Injury Scale code. We applied multivariate logistic regression to evaluate the infection risk factor. We chose age, sex, vital signs, cause and type of trauma, concomitant injury, diabetes, amputation level, Glasgow coma scale, Injury Severity Score (ISS) and blood transfusion within 24 hours following hospital arrival as confounders. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was adopted to identify thresholds for change in infection risk. We also applied propensity score (PS) matching to adjust for confounding factors that may affect the outcome.

Results: A total of 1,150 patients (967 males, 183 females) had traumatic upper extremity amputation. The mean patient age was 46.5 years. A total of 21 patients (1.8%) suffered from SSI. ISS, blood transfusion, systolic blood pressure (BP) and the upper extremity amputation except for finger were identified as the independent significant risk factors for SSI occurrence by the multivariate analysis (p < 0.05, p < 0.005, p < 0.05 and p < 0.005, respectively). ROC modelling revealed that patients with ISS of over 9 or systolic BP of over 160 had a risk for SSI. After PS matching, the patients with blood transfusion or systolic BP of over 160 had a significantly higher risk of infection (OR 9.0; p = 0.01 and OR 7.0; p = 0.03, respectively).

Conclusions: In treating patients with these risk factors, we must be especially careful in performing thorough debridement and wound care.

Level of Evidence: Level II (Therapeutic)

Incision pressing, a simple and effective intervention to reduce colorectal surgical site infection: A propensity score-matched study

Background

Colorectal surgery is associated with a high risk of surgical site infection (SSI). In March 2017, we developed an intervention, called “PRESS”, with the aim of reducing colorectal superficial SSI. This study assessed the effect of the new intervention in reducing the rates of superficial SSI in colorectal surgery.

Methods

This study was a retrospective review of 312 PRESS+ patients compared to 171 historical control PRESS− patients who were 18 years of age or older and underwent elective colorectal surgery with clean-contaminated wounds from January 2015 to June 2020. In the PRESS+ groups, we pressed the incision downward hard with clean gauze after the interrupted suturing of the skin. Propensity score matching with 15 variables was performed in a 1:1 ratio to reduce selection bias. Univariate analysis and multivariate analysis were performed to identify risk factors associated with SSI.

Results

The characteristics of the PRESS+ (n = 160) and PRESS− (n = 160) groups were well balanced after propensity score matching. The PRESS+ group had a lower superficial SSI rate (1.9% vs. 6.9%, P = 0.029) and a lower overall SSI rate (2.5% vs. 10.0%, P = 0.006) than the PRESS− group. Furthermore, multivariate analysis showed that the incisional press was an effective protective factor for superficial SSI (adjusted odds ratio = 0.215, 95% confidence interval = 0.057–0.818, P = 0.024). In addition, female sex (P = 0.048) and blood transfusion (P = 0.011) were demonstrated to be independent risk factors for superficial SSI.

Conclusion

The incisional press after suturing is a simple, costless, and effective intervention in reducing superficial incisional SSI.

Effects of Red Blood Cell Transfusions on Distant Metastases of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinomas

Simple Summary

Patients with distant metastasis of oral squamous cell carcinoma should be identified at an early stage of disease. In this study, we investigated if patients who received red blood cell transfusions are at risk for the development of distant metastasis. A positive correlation was found between RBC transfusion (HR = 2.42) and the occurrence of M+ in a multivariate regression model. Therefore, the administration of RBC can be considered as an independent prognostic factor and special attention should be paid to its detrimental effects in the perioperative management of OSCC patients.

Abstract

There is no consensus on the effect of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions on patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The aim of this study was to investigate the association between RBC administration and the occurrence of distant metastases (M+) after surgical treatment of OSCC. All medical records of patients who underwent primary surgery for OSCC in our department (2003–2019) were analyzed retrospectively (n = 609). Chi and Cox regression models were used to analyze the influence of transfusion on the development of M+, and survival rates. Kaplan–Meier curves were used for graphical presentation. A multitude of patient-specific factors showed a statistical impact in univariate analysis (transfusion, age, gender, diabetes, pT, pN, L, V, Pn, G, UICC, adjuvant therapy, free microvascular transplant, preoperative hemoglobin level). Transfusion status and pN stage were the only variables that showed a significant correlation to M+ in the multivariate Cox model. The hazard ratios for the occurrence of M+ were 2.42 for RBC transfusions and 2.99 for pN+. Administration of RBC transfusions was identified as a significant prognostic parameter for the occurrence of distant metastases after surgical treatment of OSCC. Hence, the administration of RBC transfusions should be considered carefully in the perioperative management.

Association between leukoreduced red blood cell transfusions and hospital-acquired infections in critically ill children: A secondary analysis of the TRIPICU study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) are an important problem in critically ill children. Studies show associations between the transfusion of non-leukoreduced red blood cell units (RBC) and increased HAI incidence rates (IRs). We hypothesize that transfusing pre-storage leukoreduced RBC is also associated with increased HAI IR. We aim to evaluate the associations between (1) a leukoreduced RBC restrictive transfusion strategy and HAI IR, (2) leukoreduced RBC transfusions and HAI IR, and (3) the number or volume of leukoreduced RBC transfusions and HAI IR in critically ill children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This post hoc secondary analysis of the "Transfusion Requirement in Paediatric Intensive Care Units" (TRIPICU) randomized controlled trial (637 patients) used quasi-Poisson multivariable regression models to estimate HAI incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

A restrictive transfusion strategy yielded an IRR of 0.88 (95% CI 0.67, 1.16). The association between transfusing leukoreduced RBCs (IRR 1.25; 95% CI 0.73, 2.13) and HAI IR was not statistically significant. However, we observed significant associations between patients who received >20 cc/kg volume of leukoreduced RBC transfusions (IRR 2.14; 95% CI 1.15, 3.99) and ≥3 leukoreduced RBC transfusions (IRR 2.40; 95% CI 1.15, 4.99) and HAI IR.

CONCLUSION

Exposing critically ill children to >20 cc/kg or ≥3 leukoreduced RBC transfusions were associated with higher HAI IR, suggesting dose-response patterns.

Postoperative Natural Killer Cell Dysfunction: The Prime Suspect in the Case of Metastasis Following Curative Cancer Surgery

Surgical resection is the foundation for the curative treatment of solid tumors. However, metastatic recurrence due to the difficulty in eradicating micrometastases remain a feared outcome. Paradoxically, despite the beneficial effects of surgical removal of the primary tumor, the physiological stress resulting from surgical trauma serves to promote cancer recurrence and metastasis. The postoperative environment suppresses critical anti-tumor immune effector cells, including Natural Killer (NK) cells. The literature suggests that NK cells are critical mediators in the formation of metastases immediately following surgery. The following review will highlight the mechanisms that promote the formation of micrometastases by directly or indirectly inducing NK cell suppression following surgery. These include tissue hypoxia, neuroendocrine activation, hypercoagulation, the pro-inflammatory phase, and the anti-inflammatory phase. Perioperative therapeutic strategies designed to prevent or reverse NK cell dysfunction will also be examined for their potential to improve cancer outcomes by preventing surgery-induced metastases.

Perioperative blood transfusions and survival in resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients given multimodality therapy

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The impact of perioperative blood transfusion (PBT) on outcomes for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients given multimodality therapy (MMT) remains undefined. We sought to evaluate the association of PBT with survival after PDAC resection.

METHODS

Pancreatectomy patients (July 2011-December 2017) who received MMT were abstracted from a prospective database. Overall survival (OS) was compared by PBT within 30 days, 24 h (24HR-BT), or 24 h until 30 days (Postop-BT).

RESULTS

Most (76.6%) of 312 MMT patients underwent neoadjuvant therapy (NT). Eighty-nine patients (28.5%) received PBT; 58 (18.6%) 24HR-BT, and 31 (9.9%) Postop-BT. Compared with surgery-first, NT patients received more 24HR-BTs (22.2% vs. 6.8%, p = 0.003) and PBTs overall (32.6% vs. 15.1%, p = 0.004). Overall median OS was 45 months. The association of PBT with shorter median OS appeared limited to first 24-h transfusions (34 months 24HR-BT vs. 48 months Postop-BT vs. 53 months no-PBT, p = 0.009) and was dose-dependent, with a median OS of 52 months for 0 units 24HR-BT, 35 months for 1 unit, and 25 months for ≥2 units (p = 0.004). Independent predictors of OS included node-positivity (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.93, p < 0.001), perineural invasion (HR: 1.64, p = 0.050), postoperative pancreatic fistula (HR: 1.94, p = 0.018), and 24HR-BT (HR: 1.75, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Transfusions given within 24 h are associated with dose-dependent decreases in survival after pancreatectomy for PDAC.

Do Red Blood Cell Transfusions Influence Long-Term Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Primary Surgery for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

PURPOSE

There is no consensus on the impact of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion on patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between RBC transfusions and overall survival (OS) and tumor-free survival (TFS) after operative treatment of OSCC.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, all patients treated with primary surgery between 2003 and 2017 because of OSCC were chart reviewed. The occurrence and amount of RBC transfusions (0; 1-3; >3 units) was correlated with OS and TFS by Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression analyses. Demographic, clinical, and pathological parameters were also evaluated in order to identify confounding factors.

RESULTS

Of 420 patients (243 [57.9%] male) with a mean age of 62.6 years, 67 (16.0%) received RBC transfusion. There were statistically significant (P < .01) differences in 5-year OS respectively TFS in transfused patients for the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis (0 units = 70.6%; [95% confidence interval {CI}: 65.0-75.4%] respectively 63.2% [95% CI: 57.4-68.4%], 1-3 units = 47.2% [95% CI: 29.4-63.1%] respectively 40.6% [95% CI: 24.6-55.95%] and >3 units = 48.9% [95% CI: 20.9-72.1%] respectively 30.5% [95% CI: 8.9-55.8%]). After multivariate adjustments for demographic, clinical, and pathological parameters, RBC transfusion could not be sustained as a significant prognostic factor in OS respectively TFS (1-3 units: hazard ratio = 1.5 [95% CI: 0.7-3.2] respectively 1.3 [95% CI: 0.7-2.6]; >3 units: hazard ratio = 1.2 [95% CI: 0.5 - 3.0] respectively 1.1 [95% CI: 0.5-2.4]).

CONCLUSIONS

Although RBC transfusion was not identified as a significant prognostic parameter in multivariate analysis, a clear trend for shorter OS and TFS for transfused patients in univariate and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis could be shown.

Infectious complications associated with perioperative blood transfusion in partial or radical nephrectomy

INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND

Perioperative allogeneic blood transfusion (PBT) is associated with increased infectious risk for many surgical procedures, although this has not been thoroughly explored for extirpative renal surgery. Underlying mechanisms may be related to an alteration of the patient immune response. We aimed to assess the infectious complications associated with PBT after radical or partial nephrectomy.

METHODS/MATERIALS

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample (1996-2015) was queried for patients undergoing radical or partial nephrectomy. We assessed rates of infectious complications in patients who did and did not receive PBT. Infections were index complications and included sepsis, abscess, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, and wound infection. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the risk of infectious complications accounting for age, gender, race, insurance, income, surgery type and approach, length of stay, comorbidity, and PBT.

RESULTS

We identified 140,183 patients undergoing partial or radical nephrectomy during the study period with 17,874 (12.7%) receiving PBT. The rate of PBT was stable throughout the study period (Cochran-Armitage, P= 0.97). Patients receiving PBT compared to those without were relatively older (proportion of age >70, 42.6% vs. 30.5%), non-white (25.4% vs. 21.1%), who underwent radical nephrectomy (84.3% vs. 77.4%), and with longer hospital stay (9.1 vs. 5.1 days; all P< 0.001). On multivariable analysis, PBT was associated with higher odds of any infectious complication (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.5-1.68, P< 0.001). During the study period, the risk of infectious complications was persistently increased in those receiving PBT.

CONCLUSION

PBT is independently associated with an increased risk of postoperative infections for patients undergoing partial or radical nephrectomy. This may be due to underlying transfusion-related immunomodulatory mechanisms. While PBT is necessary in many instances to promote patient survival, providers should remain cautious when providing PBT after extirpative renal surgery.

Comparative Study for Measurement of Residual Leucocytes in Leucodepleted Red Blood Cells by Two Different Methods

Estimation of residual leukocytes in blood components after leukodepletion is crucial for assessment of quality. Flow cytometry (FC) and Nageotte hemocytometer are the most widely accepted methods for counting residual white blood cells (rWBCs) in leucocyte-depleted (LD) blood components. The objective of this study was to compare use of Nageotte counting chamber and FC for quality control of leukodepleted red cell units. A prospective, observational study was conducted in the department of Transfusion Medicine. A total of 80 whole blood donations from healthy donors were subjected to testing by FC and Nageotte hemocytometer for estimation of rWBC in duplicate. Additionally, ten personnel attempted a survey for ease of use of FC. Number of rWBC detected by flow cytometer were between 1 WBC/μL and 28 WBCs/μL whereas that detected by Nageotte's chamber were between 0 WBC/μL (lowest) and 5 WBCs/μL. Coefficient of variation was found to be 87.36% by Nageotte hemocytometer method and 43.26% by FC. Linear regression analysis did not show any correlation (R-squared = 0.01, p = 0.13) between the two methods which signifies that the two methods cannot be used interchangeably. Pearson's correlation coefficient showed a weak relation between results obtained by the two methods. Inter-observer variation was found to be significant with use of Nageotte hemocytometry. Survey for ease of use of FC indicated acceptability of FC with favorable scores. Flow cytometric technique provides a reproducible and objective tool for counting rWBC in leukodepleted blood components compared with the Nageotte hemocytometer.

Prevention of infection in primary THA and TKA

Rates of peri-prosthetic joint infection (PJI) in primary total hip and total knee arthroplasty range between 0.3% and 1.9%, and up to 10% in revision cases. Significant morbidity is associated with this devastating complication, the economic burden on our healthcare system is considerable, and the personal cost to the affected patient is immeasurable.

The risk of surgical site infection (SSI) and PJI is related to surgical factors and patient factors such as age, body mass index (BMI), co-morbidities, and lifestyle. Reducing the risk of SSI in primary hip and knee arthroplasty requires a multi-faceted strategy including pre-operative patient bacterial decolonization, screening and avoidance of anaemia, peri-operative patient warming, skin antisepsis, povidone-iodine wound lavage, and anti-bacterial coated sutures.

This article also considers newer concepts such as the influence of bearing surfaces on infection risk, as well as current controversies such as the potential effects of blood transfusion, laminar flow, and protective hoods and suits, on infection risk.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:604-613. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.200004

Acute normovolemic hemodilution in major orthopedic surgery

BACKGROUND

With increasing concerns regarding the newer emerging pathogens, alternatives to allogeneic blood transfusion are being explored and acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) is one of them.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted in patients aged 18-65 years with preoperative hemoglobin >12 g/dl undergoing total knee replacement or total hip replacement. Patients in whom hemodilution was performed were included in the ANH group whereas patients undergoing treatment as per the routine hospital protocol were included in the control group.

RESULTS

Preoperative hemoglobin was similar in both ANH and control groups (12.7 ± 0.7 vs 12.6 ± 0.6, p = 0.56). Allogeneic blood requirement was significantly less in the ANH group as compared to the control group (4 vs 15, p = 0.001). Postoperative complications were significantly lower in ANH group as compared to control group (7 vs 16, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

ANH can be an alternative approach to meet the need of safe blood especially in resource constrained countries, like India where risk of transfusion transmitted infections are still high and where there is high demand of blood and acute shortage of blood in hospitals.

Is blood transfusion associated with an increased risk of infection among spine surgery patients?: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Blood transfusions are associated with many adverse outcomes among spine surgery patients, but it remains unclear whether perioperative blood transfusion during spine surgery and postoperative infection are related. Recently, many related cohort studies have been published on this topic.

METHODS

This study was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for eligible published studies. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies, and a random-effects model was used to calculate the odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to explore the source of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 8 cohort studies with a total of 34,185 spine surgery patients. These studies were considered to be of high or moderate quality based on their NOS scores, which ranged from 5 to 9. Pooled estimates indicated that blood transfusion increased the infection rate (OR, 2.99; 95% CI, 1.95 to 4.59; I = 86%), which was consistent with the sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that perioperative blood transfusion is a risk factor for postoperative infection among spine surgery patients. Further study is necessary to identify other influencing factors and to establish the mechanism underlying this relationship. Additional measures may be needed to reduce unnecessary blood transfusions during spine surgery.

Hepatic Protective Effect of Dexmedetomidine after Partial Hepatectomy Surgery: A Prospective Controlled Study

Background:

Inflow occlusion of the portal triad is a common blood loss-reducing method during hepatectomy which may induce ischemic-reperfusion injury of the remaining parts of the liver. Dexmedetomidine is used for reducing ischemic-reperfusion injury in hepatectomy.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to assess the protective effect of dexmedetomidine on liver after partial hepatectomy using inflow occlusion.

Setting and Design:

This prospective controlled, double-blinded, randomized study included any patients of either sex with age between 20 and 70 years, those in physical status American Society of Anesthesiologists Classes I and II, and those who were planned for partial hepatectomy.

Patients and Methods:

Patients with elective hepatectomy were randomized into dexmedetomidine group, which received dexmedetomidine at 0.3 mg/kg/h, and control group, which received a placebo.

Statistical Analysis:

Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS software version 18. Data were tested using Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, independent t-test or Mann–Whitney U-test, and Chi-square or Fisher's exact test. The statistical significance was considered at P < 0.05.

Results:

Serum albumin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, prothrombin time were higher in control group in comparison to dexmedetomidine group. Hypotension duration was lower in control group in comparison to dexmedetomidine group. Vasoconstrictor usage, amount of blood loss, and colloid, crystalloid, and blood given to patients were higher in control group in comparison to the study group.

Conclusions:

Dexmedetomidine can protect the liver during hepatic resection surgery with inflow occlusion with decreasing blood loss and need for blood transfusion.

Leukodepleted Packed Red Blood Cells Transfusion in Patients Undergoing Major Cardiovascular Surgical Procedure: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Leukocytes contained in the allogeneic packed red blood cell (PRBC) are the cause of certain adverse reactions associated with blood transfusion. Leukoreduction consists of eliminating leukocytes in all blood products below the established safety levels for any patient type. In this systematic review, we appraise the clinical effectiveness of allogeneic leukodepleted (LD) PRBC transfusion for preventing infections and death in patients undergoing major cardiovascular surgical procedures.

Methods

We searched randomized controlled trials (RCT), enrolling patients undergoing a major cardiovascular surgical procedure and transfused with LD-PRBC. Data were extracted, and risk of bias was assessed according to Cochrane guidelines. In addition, trial sequential analysis (TSA) was used to assess the need of conducting additional trials. Quality of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach.

Results

Seven studies met the eligibility criteria. Quality of the evidence was rated as moderate for both outcomes. The risk ratio for death from any cause comparing the LD-PRBC versus non-LD-PRBC group was 0.69 (CI 95% = 0.53 to 0.90; I² = 0%). The risk ratio for infection in the same comparison groups was 0.77 (CI 95% = 0.66 to 0.91; I² = 0%). TSA showed a conclusive result in this outcome.

Conclusions

We found evidence that supports the routine use of leukodepletion in patients undergoing a major cardiovascular surgical procedure requiring PRBC transfusion to prevent death and infection. In the case of infection, the evidence should be considered sufficient and conclusive and hence indicated that further trials would not be required.

Metabolomics Approach Based on Multivariate Techniques for Blood Transfusion Reactions

Blood transfusions temporarily improve the physical state of the patient but exert widespread effects on immune and non-immune systems. Perioperative allogeneic blood transfusions (ABT) are associated with various risks, including coagulopathy, incompatibility, transmission of infectious agents, and allergic reactions. Nevertheless, little is known about the global metabolic alterations that reflect the possible reactions of blood transfusions. In this study, we investigated metabolite changes generated by ABT in a rat model using metabolomics technology. To further profile the “metabolome” after blood transfusions, we used both liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight high-definition mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. ABT promoted a stimulatory microenvironment associated with a relative increase in glucose transporter 1/4 (GLUT1/GLUT4) expression. Supporting this result, glucose metabolism-related enzyme IRS1 and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were abnormally expressed, and levels of lysophosphatidylcholine (LysoPC) and its related enzyme phospholipase A2 (PLA2) were significantly altered in allogeneic groups compared to those in autologous groups. Finally, amino acid metabolism was also altered following ABT. Taken together, our results show a difference between autologous and allogeneic blood transfusions and demonstrate correlations with cancer-associated metabolic changes. Our data provide endogenous information for a better understanding of blood transfusion reactions.

Perioperative transfusion and the prognosis of colorectal cancer surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Perioperative transfusion can reduce the survival rate in colorectal cancer patients. The effects of transfusion on the short- and long-term prognoses are becoming intriguing.

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to define the effects of perioperative transfusion on the short- and long-term prognoses of colorectal cancer surgery.

Results

Thirty-six clinical observational studies, with a total of 174,036 patients, were included. Perioperative transfusion decreased overall survival (OS) (hazard ratio (HR), 0.33; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.24 to 0.41; P < 0.0001) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) (HR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.21 to 0.47; P < 0.0001), but had no effect on disease-free survival (DFS) (HR, 0.17; 95% CI, − 0.12 to 0.47; P = 0.248). Transfusion could increase postoperative infectious complications (RR, 1.89, 95% CI, 1.56 to 2.28; P < 0.0001), pulmonary complications (RR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.54 to 2.63; P < 0.0001), cardiac complications (RR, 2.20; 95% CI, 1.75 to 2.76; P < 0.0001), anastomotic complications (RR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.29 to 1.79; P < 0.0001), reoperation(RR, 2.88; 95% CI, 2.05 to 4.05; P < 0.0001), and general complications (RR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.66 to 2.07; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Perioperative transfusion causes a dramatically negative effect on long-term prognosis and increases short-term complications after colorectal cancer surgery.

Perioperative Inflammation and Its Modulation by Anesthetics

Surgery and other invasive procedures, which are routinely performed during general anesthesia, may induce an inflammatory response in the patient. This inflammatory response is an inherent answer of the body to the intervention and can be both beneficial and potentially harmful. The immune system represents a unique evolutionary achievement equipping higher organisms with an effective defense mechanism against exogenous pathogens. However, not only bacteria might evoke an immune response but also other noninfectious stimuli like the surgical trauma or mechanical ventilation may induce an inflammatory response of varying degree. In these cases, the immune system activation is not always beneficial for the patients and might carry the risk of concomitant, harmful effects on host cells, tissues, or even whole organ systems. Research over the past decades has contributed substantial information in which ways surgical patients may be affected by inflammatory reactions. Modulations of the patient's immune system may be evoked by the use of anesthetic agents, the nature of surgical trauma and the use of any supportive therapy during the perioperative period. The effects on the patient may be manifold, including various proinflammatory effects. This review focuses on the causes and effects of inflammation in the perioperative period. In addition, we also highlight possible approaches by which inflammation in the perioperative may be modulated in the future.

Perioperative red blood cell transfusion in orofacial surgery

In the field of orofacial surgery, a red blood cell transfusion (RBCT) is occasionally required during double jaw and oral cancer surgery. However, the question remains whether the effect of RBCT during the perioperative period is beneficial or harmful. The answer to this question remains challenging. In the field of orofacial surgery, transfusion is performed for the purpose of oxygen transfer to hypoxic tissues and plasma volume expansion when there is bleeding. However, there are various risks, such as infectious complications (viral and bacterial), transfusion-related acute lung injury, ABO and non-ABO associated hemolytic transfusion reactions, febrile non-hemolytic transfusion reactions, transfusion associated graft-versus-host disease, transfusion associated circulatory overload, and hypersensitivity transfusion reaction including anaphylaxis and transfusion-related immune-modulation. Many studies and guidelines have suggested RBCT is considered when hemoglobin levels recorded are 7 g/dL for general patients and 8-9 g/dL for patients with cardiovascular disease or hemodynamically unstable patients. However, RBCT is occasionally an essential treatment during surgeries and it is often required in emergency cases. We need to comprehensively consider postoperative bleeding, different clinical situations, the level of intra- and postoperative patient monitoring, and various problems that may arise from a transfusion, in the perspective of patient safety. Since orofacial surgery has an especially high risk of bleeding due to the complex structures involved and the extensive vascular distribution, measures to prevent bleeding should be taken and the conditions for a transfusion should be optimized and appropriate in order to promote patient safety.

Impact of a restrictive vs liberal transfusion strategy on anastomotic leakage and infectious complications after restorative surgery for rectal cancer

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of a restrictive vs liberal transfusion strategy on anastomotic leakage and infectious complications after rectal cancer surgery.

METHODS

Patients undergoing restorative proctectomy for rectal cancer between January 2008 and December 2013 were divided into four groups according to the perioperative lowest haemoglobin (Hgb) level and transfusion status: group 1 with Hgb level ≥ 10 g/dl; group 2 with Hgb level ≥ 7 and < 10 g/dl who did not receive transfusion; and group 3 with Hgb level ≥ 7 and < 10 g/dl and group 4 with Hgb level < 7 g/dl, both of which received a transfusion. Clinical characteristics, anastomotic leakage and infectious complications within 30 days of surgery were compared.

RESULTS

There were 398 patients (66% men) with a mean age of 59.3 ± 11.9 years. Groups 1, 2, 3 and 4 included 162 (40.7%), 163 (41.0%), 47 (11.8%) and 26 (6.5%) patients, respectively. Perioperative characteristics were significantly different among groups regarding neoadjuvant chemo/radiotherapy use, preoperative albumin and Hgb levels, operative approach and blood loss, tumour size and stage, surgical margin involvement and histological differentiation. The unadjusted rates of overall infectious complications were 17.2%, 27.6%, 36.2% and 50% in groups 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively (P = 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, compared to group 2, group 3 was associated with an increased likelihood of organ/space surgical site infections (SSIs) (OR 3.63, 95% CI 1.29-10.22, P = 0.01) with no significant differences in terms of anastomotic leakage, overall SSIs or overall infectious complications.

CONCLUSION

Blood transfusion of haemodynamically stable patients with Hgb level ≥ 7 g/dl is associated with increased organ/space SSIs in rectal cancer surgery.

Thrombotic and Infectious Morbidity Are Associated with Transfusion in Posterior Spine Fusion

BACKGROUND

Although previous investigators have established an association between blood transfusion and adverse outcomes, the relative frequency of different morbid events and the association with transfusion dose are not well understood.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

The purpose of the study is to characterize the relationship between blood transfusion and different types of morbidity after posterior spine fusion.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed electronic medical records for 963 patients who underwent posterior spinal fusion surgery at a single institution, of which 603 (62.6%) received an allogeneic blood transfusion. Then, we assessed patient and surgical characteristics in a risk-adjusted fashion to identify various morbid event rates and independent predictors in these adverse outcomes.

RESULTS

Compared to the non-transfused patients, transfused patients had a higher incidence of any morbid event (9.1 vs. 2.5%. P < 0.0001), thrombotic events (4.6 vs. 1.1%, P = 0.0025), and hospital-acquired infections (2.3 vs. 0.6%, P = 0.039). Renal, respiratory, and ischemic morbidity occurred less frequently and were not more common in transfused patients. Risk-adjusted analysis revealed a dose-response effect, whereby for each unit of allogeneic blood transfused, the risks of any morbid event (OR 1.183; 95% CI 1.103-1.274; P < 0.0001), thrombotic complication (OR 1.104; 95% CI 1.032-1.194; P = 0.0035), and infectious complication (OR 1.182; 95% CI 1.077-1.332; P = 0.0002) were increased.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrate risk-adjusted and transfusion dose-related increases in perioperative morbidity, with thrombotic and infectious events being the most common.

Balance Between the Proinflammatory and Anti-Inflammatory Immune Responses with Blood Transfusion in Sepsis

Blood product transfusion may exacerbate the initial immunosuppressive response of sepsis. Nurses and other patient care providers must be diligent in recognizing and managing a worsening immune status, using flow cytometry to monitor patients' immune status. This type of monitoring may be instrumental in reducing morbidity and mortality in persons with sepsis. This article discusses the recent literature on the associated inflammatory responses that occur with blood transfusion and provides an analysis of alterations in key inflammatory pathways in response to transfusion in a sepsis population.

Transfusion-related immunomodulation and cancer

Blood and blood-component therapy triggers immunological reactions in recipients. Transfusion-related immunomodulation [TRIM] is an important complex biological immune reaction to transfusion culminating in immunosuppression. The mechanisms underlying TRIM include the presence of residual leukocytes and apoptotic cells, the transfusion of immunosuppressive cytokines either present in donor components or generated during blood processing, the transfer of metabolically active growth factor-loaded microparticles and extracellular vesicles and the presence of free hemoglobin or extracellular vesicle-bound hemoglobin. TRIM variables include donor-specific factors as well as processing variables. TRIM may explain, at least in part, the controversial negative clinical outcomes observed in cancer patients receiving transfusion in the context of curative-intent surgeries. The use of novel technologies including metabolomics and proteomics on stored blood may pave the way for a deeper understanding of TRIM in general and its impact on cancer progression.

Red blood cell transfusion in surgical cancer patients: Targets, risks, mechanistic understanding and further therapeutic opportunities

Anemia is present in more than half of cancer patients and appears to be an independent prognostic factor of short- and long-term adverse outcomes. It increases in the advanced period of cancer and perioperatively, in patients with solid tumors who undergo surgery. As a result, allogeneic red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is an indispensable treatment in cancer. However, its safety remains controversial, based on several laboratory and clinical data reporting a linkage with increased risk for cancer recurrence, infection and cancer-related mortality. Immunological, inflammatory and thrombotic reactions mediated by the residual leukocytes and platelets, the stored RBCs per se, the biological response modifiers and the plasticizer of the unit may underlie infection and tumor-promoting effects. Although the causality between transfusion and infection has been established, the effects of transfusion on cancer recurrence remain confusing; this is mainly due to the extreme biological heterogeneity that characterizes RBC donations and cancer context. In fact, the functional interplay between donation-associated factors and recipient characteristics, including tumor biology per se, inflammation, infection, coagulation and immune activation state and competence may synergistically and individually define the clinical impact of each transfusion in any given cancer patient. Our understanding of how the potential risk is mediated is important to make RBC transfusion safer and to pave the way for novel, promising and highly personalized strategies for the treatment of anemia in surgical cancer patients.

The impact of perioperative red blood cell transfusions in patients undergoing liver resection: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Liver resection is associated with a high proportion of red blood cell transfusions. There is a proposed association between perioperative transfusions and increased risk of complications and tumor recurrence. This study reviews the evidence of this association in the literature.

METHODS

The Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched for clinical trials or observational studies of patients undergoing liver resection that compared patients who did and did not receive a perioperative red blood cell transfusion. Outcomes were mortality, complications, and cancer survival.

RESULTS

Twenty-two studies involving 6832 patients were included. All studies were retrospective, with no clinical trials. No studies were scored as low risk of bias. The overall proportion of patients transfused was 38.3%. After multivariate analysis, 1 of 5 studies demonstrated an association between transfusion and increased mortality; 5 of 6 demonstrated an association between transfusion and increased complications; and 10 of 18 demonstrated an association between transfusion and decreased cancer survival.

CONCLUSION

This review supports the evidence linking perioperative blood transfusions to negative outcomes. The most convincing association was with post-operative complications, some association with long-term cancer outcomes, and no convincing association with mortality. These findings support the initiation, and further study, of restrictive transfusion protocols.

Albumin-Bilirubin Score: Predicting Short-Term Outcomes Including Bile Leak and Post-hepatectomy Liver Failure Following Hepatic Resection

INTRODUCTION

Post-operative bile leak (BL) and post hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) are the major potential sources of morbidity among patients undergoing liver resection. We sought to define the incidence of BL and PHLF among a large cohort of patients, as well as examine the prognostic impact of model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) and albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) scores to predict these short-term outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients who underwent a hepatectomy between January 1, 2014 and December 31, 2014 were identified using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) liver-targeted database. Risk factors for BL and PHLF were identified using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Among the 3064 patients identified, median age was 60 years (IQR 50-68). Most patients underwent surgery (78.9 %) for malignant lesions. Post-operatively, 250 (8.5 %) patients experienced a BL while PHLF occurred in 149 cases (4.9 %). Both MELD (MELD <10 4.9 %; MELD ≥10, 10 %; P = 0.001) and ALBI (grade 1, 4.0 %; grade 2, 7.2 %; grade 3, 10.0 %; P = 0.001) were associated with PHLF occurrence, while only ALBI predicted PHLF severity (P = 0.008). Moreover, ALBI was associated with BL (grade 1, 7.1 %; grade 2, 11.5 %; grade 3, 14.0 %; P < 0.001), whereas MELD was not (MELD <10, 8.4 %; MELD ≥10, 11.2 %; P = 0.13). On multivariable analysis, ALBI grade 2/3 was associated with PHLF (OR 1.57, 95 % CI 1.08-2.27; P = 0.02), PHLF severity (OR 3.06, 95 % CI 1.50-6.23; P = 0.003), and the development of a BL (OR 1.35, 95 % CI 1.02-1.80; P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

The ALBI score was associated with short-term post-operative outcomes following hepatic resection and represents a useful pre-operative risk-assessment tool to identify patients at risk for adverse post-operative outcomes.

Allogeneic Blood Transfusion Is a Significant Risk Factor for Surgical-Site Infection Following Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Blood loss occurs significantly more frequently during total hip and knee arthroplasty than among any other type of orthopedic operation, which can sometimes lead to requiring a blood transfusion. Although allogeneic blood transfusion has been identified as a risk factor for postoperative surgical-site infection following arthroplasty, results are inconclusive. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic meta-analysis to investigate whether having an allogeneic blood transfusion significantly increases the risk for surgical-site infection, particularly after total hip and knee arthroplasty.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis using random-effect models. Using an electronic database search, we selected 6 studies that included data on 21,770 patients and among these studies compared the postoperative infection rate between an allogeneic blood-transfusion exposure group and a nonexposure group. We calculated the pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the groups.

RESULTS

The prevalences of surgical-site infections in our pooled analyses were 2.88% and 1.74% for the transfusion and nontransfusion groups, respectively. The allogeneic blood transfusion group had a significantly higher frequency of surgical-site infections based on pooled analysis using a random-effect model (pooled odds ratio = 1.71, 95% confidence interval: 1.23-2.40, P = .002).

CONCLUSION

Allogeneic blood transfusion is a significant risk factor for increasing the surgical-site infection rate after total hip and knee arthroplasty.

Perioperative Transfusion of Leukocyte-depleted Blood Products in Contemporary Radical Cystectomy Cohort Does Not Adversely Impact Short-term Survival

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of leukoreduced-only perioperative blood transfusion (PBT) and corresponding survival outcomes in a radical cystectomy cohort of patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed data from 1026 patients who underwent radical cystectomy at our institution. PBT was defined as transfusion in the intraoperative or within the postoperative hospitalization period. Multivariable analyses using Cox proportional hazards were performed to measure the association between PBT, patient variables, and 3 primary end points: recurrence-free survival, disease-specific survival, and overall survival. Kaplan-Meier curves estimated survival times and were compared with log-rank test.

RESULTS

Overall, of a total of 1026 patients, 341 (33.2%) received leukoreduced PBT. The median follow-up was 27.5 months. Transfused patients were more likely to be female, had higher estimated blood loss, lower preoperative hemoglobin, were more likely to have received neoadjuvant chemotherapy, or had undergone a continent urinary diversion. Higher pathologic tumor and nodal stage were observed more frequently in patients who received PBT. On multivariable analysis, PBT was not associated with worse recurrence-free survival, disease-specific survival, and overall survival (all P > .05). Kaplan-Meier curves did not show any significant differences (all P > .05) between the transfused and nontransfused groups. In addition, no differences were found in regard to timing of transfusion, that is, intraoperative vs postoperative, in distinct analysis.

CONCLUSION

No significant association was found between leukoreduced PBT and worse survival outcomes at short-term follow-up in a contemporary cohort of cystectomy patients. Prospective long-term follow-up is warranted.

Transfusion-related immunomodulation: review of the literature and implications for pediatric critical illness

Transfusion-related immunomodulation (TRIM) in the intensive care unit (ICU) is difficult to define and likely represents a complicated set of physiologic responses to transfusion, including both proinflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Similarly, the immunologic response to critical illness in both adults and children is highly complex and is characterized by both acute inflammation and acquired immune suppression. How transfusion may contribute to or perpetuate these phenotypes in the ICU is poorly understood, despite the fact that transfusion is common in critically ill patients. Both hyperinflammation and severe immune suppression are associated with poor outcomes from critical illness, underscoring the need to understand potential immunologic consequences of blood product transfusion. In this review we outline the dynamic immunologic response to critical illness, provide clinical evidence in support of immunomodulatory effects of blood product transfusion, review preclinical and translational studies to date of TRIM, and provide insight into future research directions.

Up-regulation of NKG2A inhibitory receptor on circulating NK cells contributes to transfusion-induced immunodepression in patients with β-thalassemia major

Accumulating evidence has shown that allogeneic blood transfusions can induce significant immunosuppression in recipients, and thereby increase the risk of postoperative infection and/or tumor relapse. Although it is well known that natural killer (NK) cells are responsible for the immunodepression effects of transfusion, the underlying mechanisms remain obscure. In this study, we investigated the role of NK cells in transfusion-induced immunodepression in β-thalassemia major. The proportion of circulating NK cells and the expression of NK receptors (NKG2A, CD158a, NKP30, NKP46 and NKG2D) as well as CD107a were detected by multicolor flow cytometry. IFN-γ production by circulating NK cells was detected by intracellular cytokine staining. Our results showed that the proportion and cytotoxicity (CD107a expression) of circulating NK cells in transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia major patients were remarkably lower than those of β-thalassemia minor patients or healthy volunteers. Expression of NKG2A inhibitory receptor on circulating NK cells in patients with β-thalassemia major was remarkably up-regulated, but there were no significant differences in the expression levels of NKP30, NKP46, NKG2D, CD158a and IFN-γ. These results indicate NKG2A inhibitory receptor may play a key role in transfusion-induced immunodepression of NK cells in patients with β-thalassemia major.

The significance of relative dose intensity in adjuvant chemotherapy of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma-including the analysis of clinicopathological factors influencing relative dose intensity

Recently, it has been reported that the relative dose intensity (RDI) of adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) influences survival in various cancers, but there are very few reports about RDI in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The optimal timing for initiation of AC for PDAC also remains unknown. The aim of this study was to identify the significance of RDI and the time interval between surgery and initiation of AC on survival of patients with PDAC. Clinicopathological factors that affect RDI were also investigated.A total of 311 consecutive PDAC patients who underwent curative resection between May 2005 and January 2015 were enrolled. Patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemoradiation, had UICC stage IV disease, or had early recurrences within 6 months were excluded, and the remaining 168 cases were analyzed.Patients with RDIs ≥80% (n = 79) showed significantly better overall survival (OS) compared to patients with RDIs <80% (n = 55) (median survival time (MST): 45.6 months, 26.0 months, P < 0.001). Patients with no AC (n = 34) showed the worst OS (MST: 20.8 months). Whether the AC was initiated earlier or later than 8 weeks after surgery did not influence survival, either in patients with RDIs ≥80% (P = 0.79) or in those with <80% (P = 0.73). Patients in the S-1 monotherapy group (n = 49) showed significantly better OS than patients in the gemcitabine monotherapy group (n = 51) (MST: 95.0 months, 26.0 months, respectively; P = 0.001). Univariate analysis conducted after adjusting for the chemotherapeutic drug used identified several prognostic factors; male gender (P = 0.01), intraoperative blood transfusion (P = 0.005), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.03), and postoperative WBC count (P = 0.03). Multivariate analysis identified intra-plus postoperative blood transfusion (P = 0.002) and high postoperative platelet-to-lymphocyte ratios (PLR) (P = 0.04) as independent predictors of poor RDI.Efforts to maintain RDI had a greater impact on survival than the struggle to start AC early after surgery. Intra-plus postoperative blood transfusion and a high postoperative PLR could be predictive markers of reduced RDI in AC of PDAC patients. Avoidance of perioperative blood transfusions where possible and nutritional support during the perioperative period could maintain adequate RDI and may lead to improved long-term outcome.

Leucocyte depleting filters and cardiothoracic surgery

Leucocyte filtration technology is now beginning to be used in cardiothoracic surgery. The leucocyte depletion of banked homologous blood has been shown to reduce its immunosuppressive effects, along with a range of other benefits. Use of such a blood product appears to be an attractive option during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) as this procedure is recognized as causing immune disturbance and long-term immunosuppression.

White-cell removal filters also appear to have a novel application in the reduction of neutrophil-mediated damage associated with CPB procedures. A strong database from animal work has been recently supplemented by human data that shows clinical benefits from autologous white-cell removal by filtration.

Impact of Transfusion on Cancer Growth and Outcome

For many years, transfusion of allogeneic red blood cells, platelet concentrates, and plasma units has been part of the standard therapeutic arsenal used along the surgical and nonsurgical treatment of patients with malignancies. Although the benefits of these blood products are not a matter of debate in specific pathological conditions associated with life-threatening low blood cell counts or bleeding, increasing clinical evidence is nevertheless suggesting that deliberate transfusion of these blood components may actually lead to negative clinical outcomes by affecting patient’s immune defense, stimulating tumor growth, tethering, and dissemination. Rigorous preclinical and clinical studies are needed to dimension the clinical relevance, benefits, and risks of transfusion of blood components in cancer patients and understand the amplitude of problems. There is also a need to consider validating preparation methods of blood components for so far ignored biological markers, such as microparticles and biological response modifiers. Meanwhile, blood component transfusions should be regarded as a personalized medicine, taking into careful consideration the status and specificities of the patient, rather than as a routine hospital procedure.