Assessment of the urgency and deferability of transfusion to inform emergency blood planning and triage: the Bloodhound prospective audit of red blood cell use

AntiPORT: adaptation of a transfusion prediction score to an Australian cardiac surgery population

Introduction: Risk scoring systems exist to predict perioperative blood transfusion risk in cardiac surgery, but none have been validated in the Australian or New Zealand population. The ACTA-PORT score was developed in the United Kingdom for this purpose. In this study, we validate and recalibrate the ACTA-PORT score in a large national database. Methods: We performed a retrospective validation study using data from the Australian and New Zealand Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons Database between 1 September 2016 and 31 December 2018. The ACTA-PORT score was calculated using an equivalent of EuroSCORE I. Discrimination and calibration was assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curves, Brier scores, and calibration plots. ACTA-PORT was then recalibrated in a development set using logistic regression and the outcome of transfusion to develop new predicted transfusion rates, termed "AntiPORT", using AusSCORE "all procedures" as the regional equivalent of EuroSCORE I. The accuracy of these new predictions was assessed as for ACTA-PORT. Results: 30 388 patients were included in the study at 37 Australian centres. The rate of red blood cell transfusion was 33%. Discrimination of ACTA-PORT was good but calibration was poor, with overprediction of transfusion (AUROC curve, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.75-0.76; Brier score, 0.19). The recalibrated AntiPORT showed significantly improved calibration in both development and validation sets without compromising discrimination (AUROC curve, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.75-0.76; Brier score, 0.18). Conclusions: The AntiPORT is the first red cell transfusion risk scoring system for cardiac surgery patients to be validated using Australian data. It is accurate and simple to calculate. The demonstrated accuracy of AntiPORT may help facilitate benchmarking and future research in patient blood management, as well as providing a useful tool to help clinicians target these resource-saving strategies.

Economic Evaluation of National Patient Blood Management Clinical Guidelines in Cardiac Surgery

OBJECTIVES

To the best of our knowledge, no published clinical guidelines have ever undergone an economic evaluation to determine whether their implementation represented an efficient allocation of resources. Here, we perform an economic evaluation of national clinical guidelines designed to reduce unnecessary blood transfusions before, during, and after surgery published in 2012 by Australia's sole public blood provider, the National Blood Authority (NBA).

METHODS

We performed a cost analysis from the government perspective, comparing the NBA's cost of implementing their perioperative patient blood management guidelines with the estimated resource savings in the years after publication. The impact on blood products, patient outcomes, and medication use were estimated for cardiac surgeries only using a large national registry. We adopted conservative counterfactual positions over a base-case 3-year time horizon with outcomes predicted from an interrupted time-series model controlling for differences in patient characteristics and hospitals.

RESULTS

The estimated indexed cost of implementing the guidelines of A$1.5 million (2018-2019 financial year prices) was outweighed by the predicted blood products resource saving alone of A$5.1 million (95% confidence interval A$1.4 million-A$8.8 million) including savings of A$2.4 million, A$1.6 million, and A$1.2 million from reduced red blood cell, platelet, and fresh frozen plasma use, respectively. Estimated differences in patient outcomes were highly uncertain and estimated differences in medication were financially insignificant.

CONCLUSIONS

Insofar as they led to a reduction in red blood cell, platelet, and fresh frozen plasma use during cardiac surgery, implementing the perioperative patient blood management guidelines represented an efficient use of the NBA's resources.

Preoperative patient factors associated with blood product use in cardiac surgery, a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Cardiac surgery is associated with a high rate of blood use. The aim of this study is to identify preoperative patient factors associated with allogeneic Red Blood Cell (RBC) or non-Red Blood Cell (NRBC) use in cardiac surgery.

METHODS

All adult cardiac surgical procedures conducted at a single Western Australian institution were retrospectively analysed. Data was collected from the Australia and New Zealand Cardiac Surgery Database from 2015 to 2018. A number of preoperative factors were identified, relating to past medical history or preoperative cardiac status. Outcome 1 was defined as the use of one or more RBC products intra or post-operatively. Outcome 2 was defined as the use of one or more NRBC products intra or post-operatively. Multivariate logistical regression analysis was done to assess for the association between preoperative factors and allogeneic blood product use.

RESULTS

A total of 1595 patients were included in this study, of which 1488 underwent a Coronary Artery Bypass Graft, Valve or a combined procedure. Patients on dialysis preoperatively and those who had preoperative cardiogenic shock demonstrated the greatest risk of requiring RBC transfusion with an odds ratio of 5.643 (95% CI 1.305-24.40) and 3.257 (95% 1.801-5.882) respectively. Patients who had preoperative cardiogenic shock demonstrated the greatest risk of requiring NRBC transfusion with an odds ratio of 3.473 (95% CI 1.970-6.135). Patients who have had a previous cardiothoracic intervention are at increased risk of both RBC and NRBC transfusion, with adjusted odds ratios of 1.774 (95% CI 1.353-2.325) and 2.370 (95% CI 1.748-3.215) respectively.

CONCLUSION

A number of factors relating to past medical history or preoperative cardiac status are implicated with increased allogeneic blood product use in cardiac surgery. Identifying high-risk patients in a preoperative setting can enable us enrol them in a blood conservation program, therefore minimizing the risk of exposure to blood transfusion.

Transfusion‑related immunomodulation in patients with cancer: Focus on the impact of extracellular vesicles from stored red blood cells (Review)

Red blood cell (RBC) transfusions may have a negative impact on the prognosis of patients with cancer, where transfusion‑related immunomodulation (TRIM) may be a significant contributing factor. A number of components have been indicated to be associated with TRIM. Among these, the impact of extracellular vesicles (EVs) has been garnering increasing attention from researchers. EVs are defined as nano‑scale, cell‑derived vesicles that carry a variety of bioactive molecules, including proteins, nucleic acids and lipids, to mediate cell‑to‑cell communication and exert immunoregulatory functions. RBCs in storage constitutively secrete EVs, which serve an important role in TRIM in patients with cancer receiving a blood transfusion. Therefore, the present review aimed to first summarize the available information on the biogenesis and characterization of EVs. Subsequently, the possible mechanisms of TRIM in patients with cancer and the impact of EVs on TRIM were discussed, aiming to provide an outlook for future studies, specifically for formulating recommendations for managing patients with cancer receiving RBC transfusions.

Unplanned blood use within 24 hours of emergency department presentation: A cohort study in an ageing population

OBJECTIVE

This research aims to elucidate drivers of blood use in an older population, with a focus on unplanned transfusions following ED presentation.

METHODS

In a retrospective cohort study we examined 2015 data for ED presentations and blood use in two hospitals serving a population containing a high proportion (21%) of adults aged ≥65 years. Unplanned blood use was defined as any transfusion ≤24 h of presentation. Data were analysed by age, sex, Major Diagnostic Category, triage category and time to transfusion.

RESULTS

A total of 5294 blood components were transfused, comprising red cells (n = 3784), fresh frozen plasma (n = 657), platelets (n = 563) and cryoprecipitate (n = 290). Men aged ≥65 years were the highest users (40%, 2107 components). Unplanned transfusions accounted for 28% (n = 1057) of annual red cell use. Of 85 014 ED presentations, 494 (0.6%) were associated with unplanned red cell transfusion. Four Major Diagnostic Categories accounted for 81% (n = 853) of unplanned red cell use: gastrointestinal (n = 375), haematology (n = 267), trauma (n = 144) and cardiovascular (n = 67). Over one-fifth of unplanned transfusions (21%, n = 222 of 1057) were associated with ICD-10 codes for anaemia as a reason for presentation within the Haematology Major Diagnostic Category. Adults aged ≥65 years accounted for 62% of overall red cell use and 61% of transfusions ≤24 h of presentation. Odds of unplanned red cell transfusion increased with age, peaking at odds ratio 28.5 (95% confidence interval 14.2-57.4) in those aged 85 years and above.

CONCLUSIONS

Unplanned blood use accounted for 28% of annual hospital blood consumption. Blood component use increased with age and was greatest in older men. A significant burden of anaemia treatment was identified by the ED.

Motivation zur Vollblutspende während pandemischer Ereignisse

Auch während Pandemien müssen die Blutspendedienste kontinuierlich BlutspenderInnen rekrutieren, um die Versorgung mit Blutprodukten zu gewährleisten. Während im Anschluss an andere Katastrophen wie Erdbeben oder Terroranschlägen die Spendebereitschaft meist sprunghaft ansteigt, zeigte sich in der Vergangenheit bei beginnenden Pandemien zunächst ein Rückgang des Spendenaufkommens. Viele SpenderInnen fürchten eine Infektion oder eine Schwächung ihres Immunsystems und bleiben zu Hause. Auch fällt es den Blutspendediensten zunächst schwer, die gewohnte Anzahl an mobilen Spendeterminen zu organisieren, wodurch das Spendenaufkommen zurückgeht. In der aktuellen SARS-CoV-2-Pandemie betrug dieser Rückgang in vielen Ländern mehr als 10%. SpenderInnen, die auch während einer Pandemie spenden, sind in der Regel erfahrener und besitzen bereits eine ausgebildete Spenderidentiät. Viele dieser SpenderInnen berichten, dass sie gezielt einen Beitrag zur Überwindung der Krise leisten möchten. Auch während einer Pandemie ist demnach eine hohe Solidarität unter BlutspenderInnen zu finden. Potenzielle ErstspenderInnen lassen sich durch die unsicheren Rahmenbedingungen dagegen von einer Spende eher abhalten und es bedarf gezielter Rekrutierungsstrategien unter Einsatz von Social-Media-Kanälen, um neue SpenderInnen zu gewinnen. Erste Befunde unter deutschen BlutspenderInnen lassen hierbei eine hohe Rückkehrintention der ErstspenderInnen erwarten. Um die Blutversorgung auch während einer Pandemie aufrechterhalten zu können, sollten die Blutspendedienste neben der Rekrutierung von ErstspenderInnen versuchen, schnell die Anzahl ihrer Spendetermine zu erhöhen. Die Ansprache bestehender SpenderInnen sollte vor allem die Verunsicherung reduzieren und das Vertrauen in die Blutspendedienste stärken. Je größer das Vertrauen in die Spendeeinrichtung ausfällt, desto geringer ist die Risikowahrnehmung der SpenderInnen. Auch sollten alternative Kontaktwege etwa über Messengerdienste getestet werden, da diese eine schnelle Ansprache erlauben.

Bleeding Management Practices of Australian Cardiac Surgeons, Anesthesiologists and Perfusionists: A Cross-Sectional National Survey Incorporating the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and COM-B Model

Purpose

Excessive bleeding is an acknowledged consequence of cardiac surgery, occurring in up to 10% of adult patients. This clinically important complication leads to poorer patient outcomes. Clinical practice guidelines are available to support best practice however variability in bleeding management practice and related adverse outcomes still exist. This study had two objectives: 1) to gain insight into current bleeding management practice for adult cardiac surgery in Australia and how that compared to guidelines and literature; and 2) to understand perceived difficulties clinicians face implementing improvements in bleeding management.

Methods

A national cross-sectional questionnaire survey was utilized. Perspectives were sought from cardiac surgeons, cardiac anesthesiologists and perfusionists. Thirty-nine closed-ended questions focused on routine bleeding management practices to address pre and intra-operative care. One open-ended question was asked; “What would assist you to improve bleeding management with cardiac surgery patients?” Quantitative data were analysed with SPSS. Qualitative data were categorized into the domains of the Theoretical Domains Framework; the domains were then mapped to the COM-B model.

Results

Survey responses from 159 Anesthesiologists, 39 cardiac surgeons and 86 perfusionists were included (response rate 37%). Four of the recommendations queried in this survey were reported as routinely adhered to < 50% of the time, 9 queried recommendations were adhered to 51–75% of the time and 4 recommendations were routinely followed >76% of the time.

Conclusion

There is a wide variation in peri-operative bleeding management practice among cardiac anaesthesiologists, surgeons and perfusionists in Australian cardiac surgery units. Conceptualizing factors believed necessary to improve practice with the TDF and COM-B model found that bleeding management could be improved with a standardized approach including; point of care diagnostic assays, a bleeding management algorithm, access to concentrated coagulation factors, cardiac surgery specific bleeding management education, multidisciplinary team agreement and support, and an overarching national approach.

Clinical coding data algorithm to categorize type of gastrointestinal bleeding as a primary reason for massive transfusion: results from the Australian and New Zealand Massive Transfusion Registry

BACKGROUND

Management of major gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) may require massive transfusion (MT), but limited data are available. Upper and lower GIB have different aetiologies, prognosis, bleeding patterns and outcomes. Better understanding of current transfusion management and outcomes in these patients is important. We sought to define and validate an algorithm based on clinical coding data to distinguish critical upper and lower GIB using data from the Australian and New Zealand Massive Transfusion Registry (ANZ-MTR).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Australian and New Zealand Massive Transfusion Registry hospital-source data on adult patients receiving a MT (defined as ≥5 red cell units within 4 h) for any bleeding context were used. An algorithm allocating ICD-10-AM codes into 'probable' or 'possible' causes of GIB was developed and applied to the ANZ-MTR. Source medical records of 69 randomly selected cases were independently reviewed to validate the algorithm.

RESULTS

Of 5482 MT cases available from 25 hospitals, 716 (13%) were identified as GIB with 538/716 (75%) categorized 'probable' and 178/716 'possible' GIB. Upper and lower GIB causes of MT were identified for 455/538 (85%) and 76/538 (14%) 'probable' cases, respectively; 7/538 (1·3%) cases had both upper and lower GIB. Allocation by the algorithm into a 'probable' GIB category had a 95·7% (CI: 90-100%) positive predictive value when validated against source medical records.

CONCLUSION

An algorithm based on ICD-10-AM codes can be used to accurately categorize patients with luminal GIB as the primary reason for MT, enabling further study of this critically unwell and resource-intensive cohort of patients.

Cancer relapse in surgical patients who received perioperative transfusion of blood and blood products: A case-control study

Background and Aims:

Immunomodulatory consequences of allogeneic blood transfusion may outweigh the advantages of improved oxygen delivery and tissue perfusion, especially in patients with cancer. In colorectal cancer, there is evidence of cancer relapse in patients who received transfusion. This retrospective analysis was undertaken to evaluate the relationship between perioperative blood transfusion and cancer recurrence in patients undergoing oncosurgery.

Methods:

In this case-control study, we retrospectively analysed the case sheets of 194 patients who had perioperative transfusion and underwent cancer surgery from March to December 2013(Study group, Cases). They were compared with controls matched for cancer site and TNM staging who did not receive perioperative transfusions (Control Group, Controls). We intended to find out if the Study group had any increased risk of cancer relapse compared with the controls. Records from the institute cancer registry were analysed in 2018 to give a follow-up period of 5 years. Continuous variables were analysed using Student's T test and Mann Whitney U test for normally distributed and skewed data respectively. For Categorical data Fisher's exact test and Chi square test were applied. The risk for recurrence was estimated using odds ratio.

Results:

The recurrence rate in cases and controls was 53.09% and 19.59% respectively and the odds ratio, 4.647 (CI: 2.954, 7.309). In Cases, significant relapse was noted for carcinomas of ovary, colorectal, bladder, larynx, head of pancreas and liver.

Conclusion:

In surgical oncology patients, ABT is associated with greater rate of recurrence.

Effectiveness and safety of tranexamic acid in total joint arthroplasty

Total joint arthroplasty is associated with significant blood loss, that could result in the need of blood transfusions. Several techniques are being utilised to limit the volume of blood loss, in order to avoid transfusion. In this review, we look at blood loss in total joint arthroplasty and the perioperative strategies to limit the loss of blood. With the use of tranexamic acid gaining popularity, we analyse the published literature on its use in patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty. We have found that published studies favour using tranexamic acid in total joint arthroplasty as a safe and effective method of reducing blood loss.

Shifting ground and gaps in transfusion support of patients with hematological malignancies

The transfusion support of hematological malignancies considers 2 dimensions: the quantity of what we order (in terms of triggers, doses, targets, and intervals), and the special qualities thereof (with respect to depths of matching and appropriate product modifications). Meanwhile, transfusion-related enhancements in the quantity and quality of life may not be dose dependent but rather tempered by unintended patient harms and system strains from overexposure. Evidence and guidelines concur in endorsing clinically noninferior conservative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion care strategies (eg, triggering at hemoglobin <7-8 g/dL and in single-unit doses for stable, nonbleeding inpatients). However, the unique subpopulation of patients with hematological malignancies who are increasingly managed on an outpatient basis, and striving at least as much for quality of life as quantity of life, is left on the edges of these recommendations, with more questions than answers. If a sufficiently specific future wave of evidence can satisfy the concerns (and contest the assumptions) of the remaining proponents of liberalism, and if conservatism is broadly adopted, savings may be potentially immense. These savings can then be reinvested to address other gaps and inconsistencies in RBC transfusion care, such as the best achievable degrees of prophylactic antigen matching that can minimize alloimmunization-related service delays and reactions.

Assessing the effect of risk factors on rates of obstetric transfusion over time using two methodological approaches

Background

While red blood cell transfusion rates have declined in most Australian medical specialties, obstetric transfusion rates have instead been increasing. Obstetric transfusions are mostly linked to postpartum haemorrhage, the rates of which have also increased over time. This study used two methodological approaches to investigate recent trends in obstetric transfusion in New South Wales (NSW) and the extent to which this was influenced by changing maternal and pregnancy characteristics.

Methods

Linked birth and hospital records were used to examine rates of red blood cell transfusion in the postpartum period for mothers giving birth in NSW hospitals from 2005 to 2015. Logistic regression models were run to examine the contribution of maternal and pregnancy risk factors to changing rates of transfusion. Risk factors were divided into “pre-pregnancy” and “pregnancy related”. Crude and adjusted estimates of the effect of year of birth on obstetric transfusion rates were compared to assess the effect of risk factors on rates over time using two approaches. The first compared actual and predicted odds ratios of transfusion for each year. The second compared the observed increase in transfusion rate with that predicted after controlling for the risk factors.

Results

Among 935,659 births, the rate of obstetric transfusion rose from 13 per 1000 births in 2005 to 17 in 2011, and remained stable until 2015. From 2005 to 2015, postpartum haemorrhage increased from 74 to 114 per 1000 births. Compared with the rate in 2005, the available maternal and pregnancy characteristics only partially explained the change in rate of transfusion by 2015 (Method 1, crude odds ratio 1.39 (95% CI 1.25, 1.56); adjusted odds ratio 1.29 (95% CI 1.15, 1.45)). After adjustment for maternal and pregnancy characteristics, obstetric transfusion incidence was predicted to increase by 10.3%, but a 38.7% increase was observed (Method 2).

Conclusion

Rates of obstetric transfusion have stabilised after a period of increase. The trend could not be fully explained by measured maternal and pregnancy characteristics with either of the two approaches. Further investigation of rates and maternal and clinical risk factors will help to inform and improve obstetric blood product use.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12874-018-0595-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Fibrinogen concentration and use of fibrinogen supplementation with cryoprecipitate in patients with critical bleeding receiving massive transfusion: a bi-national cohort study

We aimed to compare hypofibrinogenaemia prevalence in major bleeding patients across all clinical contexts, fibrinogen supplementation practice, and explore the relationship between fibrinogen concentrations and mortality. This cohort study included all adult patients from 20 hospitals across Australia and New Zealand who received massive transfusion between April 2011 and October 2015. Of 3566 patients, 2829 (79%) had fibrinogen concentration recorded, with a median first and lowest concentration of 2·0 g/l (interquartile range [IQR] 1·5-2·7) and 1·8 g/l (IQR 1·3-2·4), respectively. Liver transplant (1·7 g/l, IQR 1·2-2·1), trauma (1·8, IQR 1·3-2·5) and vascular surgery (1·9 g/l, IQR 1·4-2·5) had lower concentrations. Total median fibrinogen dose administered from all products was 7·3 g (IQR 3·3-13·0). Overall, 1732 (61%) received cryoprecipitate and 9 (<1%) fibrinogen concentrate. Time to cryoprecipitate issue in those with initial fibrinogen concentration <1 g/l was 2·5 h (IQR 1·2-4·3 h). After adjustment, initial fibrinogen concentration had a U-shaped association with in-hospital mortality [adjusted odds ratios: fibrinogen <1 g/l, 2·31 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1·48-3·60); 1-1·9 g/l, 1·29 (95% CI 0·99-1·67) and >4 g/l, 2·03 (95% CI 1·35-3·04), 2-4 g/l reference category]. The findings indicate areas for practice improvement including timely administration of cryoprecipitate, which is the most common source of concentrated fibrinogen in Australia and New Zealand.

An Evaluation of Intra- and Post-operative Blood Loss in Total Hip Arthroplasty at the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Lagos

Background:

Severe hip pain with associated significant functional limitation is the major indication for total hip replacement, a rewarding and gratifying procedure. However, significant blood loss can occur in the intra- and post-operative periods, posing a major challenge and necessitating prompt restoration of circulating blood volume to minimize morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate blood loss after primary total hip replacement, and to determine the effect of surgical time on blood loss.

Patients and Methods:

A prospective study of blood loss after total hip arthroplasty in 41 patients. All cases were primary total hip arthroplasty done by one surgeon. Intra- and post-operative blood losses were recorded in two groups of patients (surgical time <2 h and surgical time >2 h), and the effect of these on blood loss was evaluated.

Results:

The mean intra- and post-operative blood losses were 1222.7 ml and 574.3 ml, respectively. These showed a strong positive correlation with total blood loss (r = 0.790, P < 0.001 and r = 0.517, P < 0.001). Higher intra- and post-operative blood losses were recorded in patients with surgical time >2 h, with a significant difference on postoperative days 2 and 3 (P = 0.003 and P = 0.014, respectively).

Conclusion:

Blood loss in total hip replacement is an important factor and may be influenced by a shorter surgical time.

Profiling clinical platelet and plasma use to inform blood supply and contingency planning: PUPPY, the prospective utilization of platelets and plasma study

BACKGROUND

Demand for platelet (PLT) and plasma transfusions is increasing. Improved clinical supply and contingency planning requires greater understanding of usage profiles and urgency of clinical requirement.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This study was a random-sample survey of PLT and plasma units produced in Victoria, Australia, to determine product disposition, recipient demographics, clinical indications for transfusion, and urgency (or "deferability") of need. PLTs and fresh-frozen plasma (FFP) were tagged with a case report form before distribution.

RESULTS

A total of 1252 PLT and 1837 FFP units were tagged, comprising 8.3 and 13.3% of all products issued during the study period. The fate of 1243 PLT and 1808 FFP units was determined. Of products issued, 72.2% of PLTs and 87.8% of FFP were transfused. Hematologic and oncologic disorders accounted for 63.9% of PLT transfusions, with acute myeloid leukemia alone accounting for 26%. Conversely, surgical patients received the largest proportion of FFP (40.4%), predominantly for cardiothoracic, solid organ transplant, and vascular surgery. Approximately 15% of PLT transfusions and 35% of plasma transfusions were required within 1 hour, and 80% of PLT transfusions and 90% of FFP transfusions were required within 24 hours. Wastage rates were higher in regional blood banks.

CONCLUSION

The PUPPY study is a comprehensive and detailed population-based assessment of PLT and plasma usage, including urgency of use. It identifies specific clinical areas with high demand for PLT and FFP transfusion and demonstrates the high urgency of need for both products. These data inform clinical supply and contingency planning activities.

Blood Management Strategies in Total Knee Arthroplasty

A perioperative blood management program is one of a number of important elements for successful patient care in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and surgeons should be proactive in its application. The aims of blood conservation are to reduce the risk of blood transfusion whilst at the same time maximizing hemoglobin (Hb) in the postoperative period, leading to a positive effect on outcome and cost. An individualized strategy based on patient specific risk factors, anticipated blood loss and comorbidities are useful in achieving this aim. Multiple blood conservation strategies are available in the preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative periods and can be employed in various combinations. Recent literature has highlighted the importance of preoperative Hb optimization, minimizing blood loss and evidence-based transfusion guidelines. Given TKA is an elective procedure, a zero allogenic blood transfusion rate should be the aim and an achievable goal.

Intra-operative blood salvage in total hip and knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

To review records of 371 patients who underwent total hip or knee arthroplasty (THA or TKA) with intra-operative blood salvage to determine the allogeneic blood transfusion rate and the predictors for allogeneic blood transfusion.

METHODS

Records of 155 male and 216 female consecutive patients aged 17 to 95 (mean, 70) years who underwent primary THA or TKA by a single surgeon with the use of intra-operative blood salvage were reviewed.

RESULTS

The preoperative haemoglobin level was <120 g/dl in 15% of THA patients and 5% of TKA patients; the allogeneic transfusion rate was 24% in THA patients and 12% in TKA patients. Despite routine use of intra-operative blood salvage, only 59% of THA patients and 63% of TKA patients actually received salvaged blood, as a minimum of 200 ml blood loss was required to activate blood salvage. In multivariable analysis, predictors for allogeneic blood transfusion were female gender (adjusted odds ratio [OR]=2.8, p=0.02), age >75 years (adjusted OR=5.9, p<0.001), and preoperative haemoglobin level <120 g/l (adjusted OR=30.1, p<0.001), despite the use of intra-operative blood salvage. Patients who received allogeneic blood transfusion had a longer hospital stay and greater complication rate.

CONCLUSION

Intra-operative blood salvage is not effective in preventing allogeneic blood transfusion in patients with a preoperative haemoglobin level <120 g/l. It should be combined with preoperative optimisation of the haemoglobin level or use of tranexamic acid.

Transfusion indications for patients with cancer

BACKGROUND

During the last few years, considerable focus has been given to the management of anemia and coagulopathies. This article provides current concepts of red blood cell (RBC) and plasma coagulation factor replacements.

METHODS

The literature was reviewed for clinical studies relevant to RBC transfusion indications and outcomes as well as for the uses of coagulation factor replacement products for coagulopathies most likely encountered in patients with cancer.

RESULTS

Most patients without complications can be treated with a hemoglobin level of 7 g/dL as an indication for RBC transfusion. However, the effects of disease among patients with cancer may cause fatigue, so transfusions at higher hemoglobin levels may be clinically helpful. Leukoreduced RBCs are recommended as standard therapy for all patients with cancer, most of whom do not develop coagulopathy. Transfusions to correct mild abnormalities are not indicated in this patient population. Data are inconclusive regarding the value of coagulation factor replacement for invasive procedures when the international normalized ratio is below 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Indications for RBC transfusion have become more conservative as data and experience have shown that patients can be safely and effectively maintained at lower hemoglobin levels. Coagulation factor replacement is unnecessary for most modest coagulopathies.

Age of blood and adverse outcomes in a maternity population

BACKGROUND

In recent times there has been debate around whether longer storage time of blood is associated with increased rates of adverse outcomes after transfusion. It is unclear whether results focused on cardiac or critically ill patients apply to a maternity population. This study investigates whether older blood is associated with increased morbidity and readmission in women undergoing obstetric transfusion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Women giving birth in hospitals in New South Wales, Australia, between July 2006 and December 2010 were included in the study population if they had received between 1 and 4 red blood cell units during the birth admission. Information on women's characteristics, transfusions, and outcomes were obtained from five routinely collected data sets including blood collection, birth, and hospitalization data. Generalized propensity score methods were used to determine the effect of age of blood on rates of severe morbidity and readmission, independent of confounding factors.

RESULTS

Transfusion data were available for 2990 women, with a median age of blood transfused of 20 days (interquartile range, 14-27 days). There were no differences in the maximum age of blood transfused between women with and without severe morbidity (21 [14-28] days vs. 22 [15-30] days) and in women readmitted or not (22 [14-28] days vs. 22 [16-30] days). After potential confounding factors were considered, no relationship was found between the age of blood transfused and rates of severe morbidity and readmission.

CONCLUSION

Among women receiving low-volume transfusions during a birth admission, there was no evidence of increased rates of adverse outcomes after transfusion with older blood.

Blood loss in primary total knee arthroplasty--body temperature is not a significant risk factor--a prospective, consecutive, observational cohort study

BACKGROUND

Hypothermia related to anaesthesia and operating theatre environment is associated with increased blood loss in a number of surgical disciplines, including total hip arthroplasty. The influence of patient temperature on blood loss in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has not been previously studied.

METHODS

We recorded patient axillary temperature in the peri-operative period, up to 24 h post-operatively, and analysed the effect on transfusion rate and blood loss from a consecutive cohort of 101 patients undergoing primary TKA.

RESULTS

No relationship between peri-operative patient temperature and blood loss was found within the recorded patient temperature range of 34.7-37.8 °C. Multivariable analysis found increasing age, surgical technique, type of anaesthesia and the use of anti-platelet and anticoagulant medications as significant factors affecting blood loss following TKA.

CONCLUSION

Patient temperature within a clinically observed range does not have a significant impact on blood loss in primary TKA patients. As long as patient temperature is maintained within a reasonable range during the intra-operative and post-operative periods, strategies other than rigid temperature control above 36.5 °C may be more effective in reducing blood loss following TKA.

Transfusion practice varies widely in cardiac surgery: Results from a national registry

OBJECTIVES

Evidence is accumulating of adverse outcomes associated with transfusion of blood components. If there are differences in perioperative transfusion rates in cardiac surgery, and what hospital factors may contribute, requires further investigation.

METHODS

Analysis of 42,743 adult patients who underwent 43,482 procedures from 2005 to 2011 at 25 Australian hospitals, according to the Australian and New Zealand Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons Cardiac Surgery Database. Multiple logistic regression examined associations of patient and hospital characteristics with transfusion of ≥1 red blood cell (RBC) unit; platelet (PLT), fresh frozen plasma (FFP), and cryoprecipitate (CRYO) doses; and ≥5 RBC units, from surgery until hospital discharge.

RESULTS

Procedures included 24,222 (55%) isolated coronary artery bypass grafts, 7299 (17%) isolated valve, 4714 (11%) coronary artery bypass graft and valve, and 7247 (17%) other procedures. After adjustment for various patient and procedure characteristics, transfusion rates varied across hospitals for ≥1 RBC unit from 22% to 67%, ≥5 RBC units from 5% to 25%, ≥1 PLT dose from 11% to 39%, ≥1 FFP dose from 11% to 48% and ≥1 CRYO dose from 1% to 20%. Hospital characteristics, including state or territory, private versus public, and teaching versus nonteaching, were not associated with variation in transfusion rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Variation in transfusion of all components and large volume RBC was identified, even after adjustment for patient and procedural factors known to influence transfusion, and this was not explained by hospital characteristics.

Cost of allogeneic blood transfusion

Blood is a scarce and costly resource to society. Therefore, it is important to understand the costs associated with blood, blood components, and blood transfusions. Previous studies have attempted to account for the cost of blood but, because of different objectives, perspectives, and methodologies, they may have underestimated the true (direct and indirect) costs associated with transfusions. Recognizing these limitations, a panel of experts in blood banking and transfusion medicine gathered at the Cost of Blood Consensus Conference to identify a set of key elements associated with whole blood collection, transfusion processes, follow-up, and to establish a standard methodology in estimating costs. Activity-based costing (ABC), the proposed all-inclusive reference methodology, is expected to produce standard and generalizable estimates of the cost of blood transfusion, and it should prove useful to payers, buyers, and society (all of whom bear the cost of blood). In this article, we argue that the ABC approach should be adopted in future cost-of-transfusion studies. In particular, we address the supply and demand dilemma associated with blood and blood components; evaluate the economic impact of transfusion-related adverse outcomes on overall blood utilization; discuss hemovigilance as it contributes not to the expense, but also the safety of transfusion; review previous cost-of-transfusion studies; and summarize the ABC approach and its utility as a methodology for estimating transfusion costs.

Implementation of Maximum Surgical Blood Ordering Schedule and an Improvement in Transfusion Practices of Surgeons subsequent to Intervention

Over ordering of blood is a common practice for elective surgeries in many developing countries. Over a decade back, our institution-The Aga Khan University, Pakistan noticed that surgeons were making unnecessary arrangement of red cells. This was reflected in their undesirably high cross-matched to transfusion (CT) ratios. A clinical audit conducted in 1998-2000 confirmed this. This prompted the institution for designing a maximum surgical blood ordering schedule (MSBOS) in 2000 based on the retrospective usage of blood in various elective surgeries. This study aimed at observing the impact of implementation of MSBOS on surgeons' transfusion practices by comparing pre and post intervention cross-matched to transfused ratio in selected elective surgeries. For this purpose, we conducted a clinical audit from 2009 to 2010 and data was retrieved for quantity of red cells units arranged and transfused in the peri-operative period. C:T ratio was computed and compared with those in 2000. Identification of patients and physicians were kept confidential. Baseline C:T ratios for C-section, TURP, total knee replacement, laparoscopic cholecystectomy and CABG were 32, 22, 11.42, 23 and 4.77 respectively. In 2009-2010, red cells were transfused in 86 of 1,224 C-sections (7 %), 599 of 727 CABG (82 %), 10 of 324 TURP (3 %),16 of 890 laparoscopic cholecystectomy (1.7 %) and 14 of 85 total knee replacement (16.4 %) The C:T ratio in these surgeries was between 0 and 1. Implementation of MSBOS and efforts of BUC showed a significant impact in transfusion practices of surgeons with marked reduction in the utilization of blood and the C:T ratio. We recommend that regular audits should be conducted in every institution to improve the quality of services, encourage team work and ensure high standards.

Transfusion demand control strategies: potential efficacy of hospital and regional interventions

INTRODUCTION

Contingency plans have been developed to direct appropriate responses to blood shortages. Planning requires an understanding of the potential savings of different conservation strategies.

METHOD

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Haemovigilance and ACT Pathology transfusion databases were reviewed from March to September 2003. All transfusion episodes were prioritised in accordance with the Australian National Blood Supply Contingency Plan. The number of red cell transfusions related to various indications, their appropriateness and acuity was determined. The potential reduction in red cell usage was modelled for potential red cell reduction interventions.

RESULTS

There were 2305 units of red cells captured during the timeframes of the audits. This accounted for an estimated 70% of all red cell transfusions in the ACT. After correcting for the number of red cells transfused at each hospital, red cells were prioritised as category 1 in 59%, 2 in 27% and 3 in 13%. The remainder had insufficient data for classification. Transfusion for elective surgery accounted for 14.7% of red cells used, with 9.0% rated category 3 under the contingency plan. There were 17.3% of red cells transfused for inappropriate indications, when reviewed against national guidelines. After excluding inappropriate transfusions, cancelling elective surgery could potentially save a further 5.5% and 4.3% of blood utilisation for category 3 and 2 patients, respectively. Significant differences were found between hospitals.

CONCLUSION

Targeting inappropriate transfusions by vetting particularly for inappropriate transfusions not only re-directs blood away from those unlikely to benefit, but is also more effective at preserving the red blood cells than other measures during times of supply limitation. Contingency planning needs to accommodate the variable case-mix in hospitals, allocate resources for transfusion medicine specialists to review every transfusion request and may be better coordinated at a jurisdictional level.

[Immunological blood transfusion safety and selection of red blood cells issued from hospital blood banks]

Allogeneic red blood cells transfusion is always an immunological challenge and the choice of the blood products is crucial for the patient safety. But this choice may be hampered by the quality or the quantity of the available supply. In the end, the lack of transfusion may be more harmful than transfusion. The balance between patients' needs and blood centres supplying is always delicate. The conditions are not the same for all blood groups. Things are easier for the KEL1 phenotype, where the supply must ensure only 92.5% of KEL: -1 red blood cells instead of the 91% expected. More complicated is the situation for group O red blood cells with 47 versus 43%. But the major problem concerns RH: -1 red blood cells, for which the needs reach 20.1 versus 15%. These challenges require a lot of efforts from blood centres staffs to influence blood donors' recruitment and appointments. A justified and carefully selected blood products issuing may be of great help, especially for group O RH: -1 red blood cells. Therefore, hospital blood banks must have ad hoc procedures and a trained staff to put them into practice.

The cost-effectiveness of introducing nucleic acid testing to test for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and human immunodeficiency virus among blood donors in Sweden

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to estimate the cost-effectiveness of using individual-donor nucleic acid testing (ID-NAT) in addition to serologic tests compared with the sole use of serologic tests for the identification of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among blood donors in Sweden.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The two strategies analyzed were serologic tests and ID-NAT plus serologic tests. A health-economic model was used to estimate the lifetime costs and effects. The effects were measured as infections avoided and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained. A societal perspective was used.

RESULTS

The largest number of viral transmissions occurred with serologic testing only. However, the risks for viral transmissions were very low with both strategies. The total cost was mainly influenced by the cost of the test carried out. The cost of using ID-NAT plus serologic tests compared to serologic tests alone was estimated at Swedish Krona (SEK) 101 million (USD 12.7 million) per avoided viral transmission. The cost per QALY gained was SEK 22 million (USD 2.7 million).

CONCLUSION

Using ID-NAT for testing against HBV, HCV, and HIV among blood donors leads to cost-effectiveness ratios that are far beyond what is usually considered cost-effective. The main reason for this is that with current methods, the risks for virus transmission are very low in Sweden.