Blood transfusion in orthopaedic operations

Risk factors for postoperative blood transfusion after shoulder arthroplasty

Purpose

To identify the effect of surgical indication, patient factors, and perioperative characteristics on transfusion after shoulder arthroplasty (SA).

Methods

Shoulder arthroplasties for osteoarthritis (OA) (N = 47), rotator cuff arthropathy (RCA) (N = 50), fracture (N = 76), revision (N = 66), and periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) (N = 35) performed at a single institution during a 6-year period were included. All other indications were excluded. Patient-based and surgical risk factors, including surgical indication, for postoperative allogeneic red blood cell transfusion were assessed with multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 274 SAs were included; transfusions were performed in 2% (2/97) of primary SAs for OA or RCA. Increased transfusion rates occurred in PJI (23%, p = 0.0006) and fracture (18%, p = 0.0018) cases. The mean preoperative hemoglobin (Hgb) was 12.2 ± 2.2 with PJI, 12.0 ± 2.1 with fracture, and 13.3 ± 1.6 g/dL for all other SAs. Independent risk factors for transfusion included lower preoperative hemoglobin (p < 0.001), PJI indication (p = 0.008), and fracture indication (p = 0.02), with no difference for fracture greater or less than 4 weeks old (p = 0.53).

Conclusion

Risk factors for allogeneic red blood cell transfusion after SA were low preoperative hemoglobin and procedures for PJI or fracture.Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective case-control study.

Effects of Pre-Donated Autologous Blood Transfusion on Peri-Operative Hemoglobin Concentration and Mid-Term Health Outcomes in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty

The effects of auto-BT in primary TKA on the perioperative hemoglobin (Hb) concentration and mid-term health outcomes are unknown. This study was performed to analyze the detailed changes in the perioperative Hb concentration before and after the operation (days 0–14 postoperatively), cardiovascular events, and mortality rate within 1 and 5 years postoperatively. One hundred patients undergoing primary TKA with auto-BT using 800 mL of preoperatively collected blood at the authors’ institution were included. The mean Hb concentration before and after autologous blood collection was 12.7 ± 1.1 and 11.7 ± 1.2 g/dL, respectively. After primary TKA with auto-BT, the mean Hb concentration on day 0, 1, 3, 7, and 14 was 10.2 ± 1.2, 9.9 ± 1.2, 10.4 ± 1.3, 10.5 ± 1.3, and 11.0 ± 1.3 g/dL, respectively. Only one (1%) patient required additional allogenic blood transfusion. No patients developed cardiovascular events, and the 1- and 5-year postoperative mortality rate was 1.0% and 2.0%, respectively. Primary TKA with auto-BT showed relatively small perioperative changes in the Hb concentration, a low incidence of cardiovascular events, and a low mortality rate within 1 and 5 years postoperatively. These findings suggest that auto-BT, in which blood is preoperatively collected, is beneficial for patient safety and health, even if its cost-effectiveness may be debatable.

Current Guidelines and Practice Recommendations to Prevent Hospital-Acquired Conditions After Major Orthopaedic Surgeries

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In 2016, a total of 48,771 hospital-acquired conditions (HACs) were reported in U.S. hospitals. These incidents resulted in an excess cost of >$2 billion, which translates to roughly $40,000 per patient with an HAC.

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Current guidelines for the prevention of venous thromboembolism and surgical site infection consist primarily of antithrombotic prophylaxis and antiseptic technique, respectively.

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The prevention of catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CA-UTI) and in-hospital falls and trauma is done best via education. In the case of CA-UTI, this consists of training staff about the indications for catheters and their timely removal when they are no longer necessary, and in the case of in-hospital falls and trauma, advising the patient and family about the patient's fall risk and communicating the fall risk to the health-care team.

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Blood incompatibility is best prevented by implementation of a pretransfusion testing protocol. Pressure ulcers can be prevented via patient positioning, especially during surgery, and via postoperative skin checks.

Is TKA with computer-assisted navigation associated with less blood loss? A comparative study between computer-navigated and conventional method

The aim of this study is to evaluate whether computer-assisted navigated TKA reduces perioperative blood loss. Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups and underwent either a conventional TKA (n = 40) or a TKA with computer-assisted navigation (n = 40). Perioperative blood loss was evaluated by laboratory parameters, postoperative drain output and number of required transfusions. Change in hemoglobin concentration and in hematocrit levels was similar. Also, there was no statistically significant difference in drain output and in the number of transfused units. The results of this study showed that TKA with computer-assisted navigation is similar to the conventional TKA regarding perioperative hemorrhage.

Hemostatic techniques to reduce blood transfusion after primary TKA: a meta-analysis and systematic review

PURPOSE

To investigate the efficacy of non-tranexamic acid (TXA) on reducing blood loss and requirements of allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

The PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library databases were researched since incipiency to June 2018. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involved with non-TXA hemostatic techniques in TKA met the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 36 RCTs, including 1511 patients, were recruited for analysis. The results of subgroup analysis revealed that hemostatic techniques, which could substantially decrease the rate of ABT, were cell salvage with the transfusion trigger of 9 mg/dl, fibrin sealant with a dosage of 10 ml, and postoperative flexion position.

CONCLUSION

The available evidence in this meta-analysis suggests that postoperative flexion position, fibrin sealant, and cell salvage can substantially decrease the rate of ABT in TKA. Further studies, including more hemostatic methods and high-quality research, are expected.

The combined administration of systemic and topical tranexamic acid for total hip arthroplasty: Is it better than systemic?

OBECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of combined intravenous and topical use of tranexamic acid (TXA) on total blood loss and transfusion rate in total hip arthroplasty.

METHODS

This prospective randomized study included 57 patients who had undergone total hip arthroplasty between September 2016 and September 2017. The IV administration group (Group 1) consisted of 26 patients (mean age: 63.73 ± 10.29 years), while the IV and topical administiration group (Group 2) consisted of 22 patients (62.82 ± 8.31 years). Demographic data and outcomes were obtained through a review of individual medical records. Medical comorbidities, body mass index (BMI), ASA and CCI, preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin levels, postoperative transfusion records and 90-day joint-related (implant subsidence, dislocation, postoperative anemia, deep infection, hematoma and/or wound problem, postoperative periprosthetic fracture) readmission rate and complication rate were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed between the 2 groups in terms of age, gender, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), the level of preoperative Hb values, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) and Charleson Comorbidty Index (CCI) rating (p > 0.05). The mean postoperative Hgb in the group 2 was higher by a small amount compared to the group 1. No statistically significant difference was determined between the groups in respect of the Hgb values (p = 0.562). Hgb Delta in the group 2 was lower than that of the group 1. The difference between the groups in the Hgb Delta values was not statistically significant (p = 0.268). The mean total blood loss was lower in the group 2 than in the group 1 but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.788). There was no significant difference observed in terms of any adverse complications among the 2 groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The combined administration of IV and topical TXA compared with IV alone can decrease total blood loss and the number of blood transfusions required without increasing the risk of DVT or/and PE in total hip arthroplasty. But the statistical analysis and clinical relevance is not significant.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I Therapeutic Study.

Effects of topical tranexamic acid during open reduction and internal fixation of acetabular fractures: A retrospective study

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of topical tranexamic acid on blood loss and transfusion rates in acetabular fracture surgery.

Methods

The medical records of 61 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for acetabular fracture between 2012 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups: Group I consisted of 31 patients (19 men and 12 women, mean age: 52 ± 19 years) who received intraoperatively a topical tranexamic acid solution of 3 g and Group 2 consisted of 30 control patients (17 men and 13 women, mean age: 48 ± 24 years) who received only 0.9% saline solution. The groups were compared based on their intraoperative blood loss, Postoperative drain output at 24 and 48 h, and postoperative hemoglobin levels, and transfusion rates.

Results

The mean intraoperative blood loss was 410 ± 100 ml in Group 1, compared to 570 ml ± 160 ml of the control group (p < 0.05). The postoperative drain output after 24 h was 210 ± 70 ml in Group 1 compared to 330 ± 90 ml of the control group (p < 0.05). The drain output at 48 h was (50 ± 20 ml) in group 1 compared to 90 ± 40 ml of the control group (p < 0.05). The transfusion rate was significantly low group 1 (42%) than the control group (97%). Hemoglobin drop was again significantly less in tranexamic acid group (2.1 ± 1.1) than the control group (3.2 ± 1.3). The nadir postoperative hemoglobin was higher in the Group 1 (10.4 ± 1.5) than the control group (9.2 ± 1.3).

Conclusion

Topical administration of tranexamic acid reduces intraoperative and postoperative blood loss in acetabular fracture surgery, decreasing transfusion rates.

Level of Evidence

Level III, Therapeutic Study.

Complications, Results, and Risk Factors of Spinal Fusion in Patients With Myelomeningocele

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective prognostic study.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study assess was to assess the results of spinal fusion and identify factors associated with the development of post-spinal fusion infections in patients with myelomeningocele.

BACKGROUND

Surgical correction of neuromuscular scoliosis secondary to myelomeningocele is known to be associated with a high complication rate.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study design was used to collect data on patients with myelomeningocele who underwent spinal fusion between the years of 1997-2013. Only subjects with a minimum of two years of continuous follow-up were included in the study. Demographic, surgical, clinical, and radiographic variables of interest were collected. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors predictive of an infection. Linear mixed model regression analyses were used to analyze postsurgical changes in radiographic parameters.

RESULTS

Of the 33 subjects included in the study, 33.3% developed a postoperative infection. Overall, 69.0% of patients achieved a >50% correction of primary curvature at the one-month time point. Of the measured variables, lumbar and thoracolumbar kyphosis (odds ratio: 10.9, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2-158.3, p = .0465) and a low preoperative hematocrit odds ratio per 1% increase, 0.7 (95% CI: 0.5-0.9, p = .0145) were associated with developing a postoperative infection. There was a significant improvement in the proportion of subjects with a pelvic obliquity measurement <5° one month postsurgery (p = .0339), kyphosis (p = .0401), and Cobb angle of the primary curvature across all time points (p <.0001).

CONCLUSION

Type of procedure, neurosegmental level, transfusion rates, age at surgery, gender, length of operation, preoperative urinary tract infection, estimated blood loss, and the number of levels fused were not modifiable risk factors for future complications for patients with scoliosis secondary to myelomeningocele, whereas lumbar and thoracolumbar kyphosis or low hematocrit levels may lead to an increased risk for developing a postspinal fusion infection.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

Quantifying Blood Loss and Transfusion Risk After Primary vs Conversion Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) and conversion THA may result in substantial blood loss, sometimes necessitating transfusion. Despite the complexities of the latter, both are grouped in the same category for quality assessment and reimbursement. This study's purpose was to compare both blood loss and transfusion risk in primary and conversion THA and identify their associated predictors.

METHODS

A total of 1616 patients who underwent primary and conversion THA at a single hospital from 2009-2013 were reviewed (primary THA = 1575; conversion THA = 41). Demographics, comorbidities, and perioperative data were collected from electronic records. Blood loss was calculated using a validated method. Transfusion triggers were based on standardized criteria. Separate multivariable regression models for blood loss and transfusion were performed.

RESULTS

Conversion THA patients were younger (P = .002), had lower age-adjusted Charlson scores (P = .006), longer surgeries (P < .001), higher blood loss (P < .001), and more transfusions (P < .001). Primary and conversion THA groups were different in terms of surgical approach (P < .001), anesthesia type (P = .002), and venous thromboembolism prophylaxis (P = .01). Compared to primary THA, conversion THA had an average 478.9 mL higher blood loss (P = .003) and increased adjusted odds ratio of 3.2 (P = .019) for transfusion.

CONCLUSION

Conversion THA leads to higher blood loss and transfusion compared with primary THA. These differences were quantified in the present study and showed consistent results between the 2 metrics. The differences between these procedures should be addressed during quality assurance because conversion THA is associated with higher resource utilization, which is important in the allocation of resources and tiered reimbursement strategies.

Blood transfusion after total shoulder arthroplasty: Which patients are at high risk?

PURPOSE

There are multiple reported risk factors and a wide range of reported blood transfusion rates for total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). There are no evidence-based guidelines for blood transfusions in TSA patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We utilized the Nationwide Inpatient Sample to analyze 51,191 patients undergoing TSA between 1998 and 2011. The purpose was to describe the incidence and identify the preoperative factors that are independently associated with blood transfusion after TSA. In addition, we studied the association of blood transfusions with certain variables such as length of stay (LOS), total charges, and payer status.

RESULTS

The blood transfusion rate in our study was 6.1%. There was no difference in the rate of blood transfusions over the study period (P < 0.001). In our logistic regression model, significant associations were found with increased age (odds ratio [OR] =1.03), white race (OR = 1.05), higher Charlson-Deyo score (OR = 1.12), presence of ischemic heart disease (OR = 1.24), blood loss anemia (OR = 1.65), female gender (OR = 1.94), presence of coagulation disorders (OR = 2.25), and presence of deficiency anemia (OR = 3.5). Patients receiving a blood transfusion had higher total charges, a longer hospital LOS, and were more likely to be Medicare payers (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found five clinically significant risk factors for blood transfusions for TSA: female gender, ischemic heart disease, deficiency anemia, coagulation disorder, and blood loss anemia. Patients with these risk factors should be considered higher risk for requiring a blood transfusion after TSA and counseled appropriately.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, retrospective cohort study, prognostic study.

Can an Arthroplasty Registry Help Decrease Transfusions in Primary Total Joint Replacement? A Quality Initiative

BACKGROUND

Standardized care plans are effective at controlling cost and quality. Registries provide insights into quality and outcomes for use of implants, but most registries do not combine implant and care quality data. In 2012, several Michigan area hospitals and a major insurance provider formed a voluntary statewide total joint database/registry, the Michigan Arthroplasty Registry Collaborative Quality Initiative (MARCQI), to collect procedural, hospital, discharge, and readmission data. Noting substantial variation in transfusion practices after total joint arthroplasty (TJA) in our institutions, we used these prospectively collected data to examine whether awareness and education of the American Association of Blood Banks' (AABB) transfusion guidelines would result in decreased transfusions.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) Can an established arthroplasty registry help implement a quality initiative (QI) designed to decrease the proportion of transfused postoperative patients undergoing TJA? (2) Do data-driven transfusion protocols decrease length of stay without increasing ischemic complications (myocardial infarctions and cerebrovascular accidents)? (3) Are decreased transfusion proportions associated with decreased readmissions, nonischemic morbidity (including deep vein thrombosis and deep prosthetic infection), and mortality in postoperative patients who had undergone TJA?

METHODS

After reviewing data from the recently established MARCQI registry, the orthopaedic department noticed many discrepancies and practice variances regarding blood transfusions among their providers. In October 2013, a QI was implemented to raise awareness of the discrepancies and education about the AABB guidelines was presented at the monthly orthopaedic service line meeting. A total of 1872 TJA cases were reviewed; 50 were excluded for incomplete data and two for intraoperative transfusions for the period before education (May 2012 to June 2013, n = 1240) and after education (November 2013 to April 2014, n = 580). Data collected included gender, age, length of stay, body mass index, preoperative hemoglobin level, lowest postoperative hemoglobin level during admission, transfusion status, number of units transfused, ischemic and nonischemic morbidity, hospital readmissions within 90 days, and mortality. Pre- and post-QI transfusion proportions were calculated. Chi-square test, Student's t-test, and a multivariate analysis were performed to compare differences in transfusion proportions for patients with a postoperative hemoglobin ≥ 8 g/dL.

RESULTS

Overall, the percentage of patients transfused with a postoperative hemoglobin ≥ 8 g/dL decreased 80% (6.5% [71 of 1092] versus 1.3% [seven of 538]; odds ratio, 5.3; 95% confidence interval, 2.4-11.6; p < 0.001) after the educational intervention. Before education, 16% (195 of 1240) of all patients undergoing TJA were transfused, whereas 6.5% (71 of 1092) were outside recommended AABB guidelines (hemoglobin ≥ 8 g/dL). In the 6 months after QI initiation, overall transfusions decreased to 6% (35 of 580) with 1.3% (seven of 538) having a hemoglobin ≥ 8 g/dL. The mean length of stay for nontransfused patients was shorter (2.4 days ± 0.9 versus 3.3 days ± 1.1, p < 0.001) and ischemic complications did not differ between groups (0.32% [four of 1240] versus 0.34% [two of 580], p = 0.61). Before and after education, neither the number of readmissions (5.4% [67 of 1240] versus 4.7% [27 of 580], p = 0.50) nor morbidity (3.6% [45 of 1240] versus 2.4% [14 of 580], p = 0.17) differed between time periods. There were no deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

Simple education and awareness of quality practices drive safety and compliance. The impact can be immediate and lasting. Arthroplasty registries that combine procedural and care quality data are vital and may be used for important data-driven QIs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Complete blood count before and after total hip or knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

To validate our transfusion protocol based on pre- and post-operative complete blood count (CBC) data in patients undergoing primary total hip or knee arthroplasty (THA or TKA).

METHODS

Records of 113 men and 205 women aged 32 to 94 (mean, 70) years who underwent primary uncemented THA (n=123) or cemented TKA (n=195) for osteoarthritis by 2 senior surgeons were reviewed. A post-surgical drain was used in 29 THA patients and 74 TKA patients, based on the surgeon's preference. CBC was assessed preoperatively, during postanaesthesia care, and at the beginning of postoperative days 1, 2, and 3 to determine their predictive power for transfusion rate. According to our transfusion protocol, blood was transfused when the haemoglobin (Hb) level was <80 g/l, or when hypotension, tachycardia, light-headedness, dizziness, or syncope occurred.

RESULTS

Respectively in 123 and 195 patients who underwent THA and TKA, the transfusion rates within 3 days were 31.7% (n=39) and 25.6% (n=50). No patient required transfusion during postanaesthesia care; the transfusion rates of all patients during day 1 to day 2 and day 2 to day 3 were 15.1% (n=48) and 12.9% (n=41), respectively. The transfusion rate was higher in women than men (36.6% vs. 12.4%, p<0.001), but did not differ significantly in patients with or without a post-surgical drain (29.1% vs. 27.4%, p=0.754). Respectively for the Hb level of <130 g/l, 130-150 g/l, and >150 g/l, the overall transfusion rates were 48.5%, 22.0%, and 4.3% based on the preoperative level; 32.6%, 7.6%, and 0% based on the postanaesthesia care level; and 28.9%, 8.3%, and 0% based on the day 1 level. The predictive power of the preoperative Hb level was highest, followed by that during postanaesthesia care and the on day 1.

CONCLUSION

CBC during postanaesthesia care is no more predictive than preoperative CBC. Preoperative optimisation and close monitoring of the Hb level from day 1 to day 3 is recommended.

Gelatin matrix use reduces postoperative bleeding after total knee arthroplasty

Bleeding after total knee arthroplasty can result in significant morbidity and increases the need for blood transfusion. The proper use of intraoperative adjunctive topical hemostatic agents can enhance hemostasis perioperatively, potentially reducing blood transfusions. In this prospective study, 157 consecutive patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty received FLOSEAL (FLOSEAL Hemostatic Matrix; Baxter Healthcare Corporation, Hayward, California), a gelatin thrombin hemostatic matrix, 5 mL (74 patients) or 10 mL (83 patients). All patients received warfarin as thromboprophylaxis starting the day after surgery. Data were extracted via hospital chart review from 100 consecutive patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty and immediately preceded the FLOSEAL groups and did not receive FLOSEAL (control group). Postoperative drainage was significantly lower in the FLOSEAL 5 mL (236.9 mL) and 10 mL (120.5 mL) groups compared with the control group (430.8 mL; P<.0001 for both). The FLOSEAL 10 mL group had significantly less drainage than the FLOSEAL 5 mL group (P<.0001). The predicted probability of transfusion in the FLOSEAL 5 mL group was not significantly different compared with the control group (6.0% vs 7.6%, P=.650). The predicted probability of transfusion was lower in the FLOSEAL 10 mL group compared with the control group (0.5% vs 5.5%; P=.004). Within the FLOSEAL 10 mL group, application of FLOSEAL either before or after tourniquet release had a similarly significant effect on drainage volume and predicted probability of blood transfusion. No differences in outcomes were observed by type of anesthesia used. No adverse events occurred related to FLOSEAL use.

Comparison of topical and intravenous tranexamic acid on blood loss and transfusion rates in total hip arthroplasty

The objective of this study was to determine whether topical tranexamic acid (TXA) carried similar hemostatic effect compared with intravenous TXA in total hip arthroplasty (THA). Three hundred and three THA patients were enrolled and randomized into 3 groups: no TXA group, topical and intravenous TXA group. The results showed that the topical and intravenous TXA group had reduced but similar blood transfusion rates (5.88% v. s. 5.94%, P = 0.816). No significant difference was detected in total blood loss between the two TXA groups [(963.4 ± 421.3) ml vs. (958.5 ± 422) ml P = 0.733]. We conclude that topical use of TXA was equally effective and safe compared with intravenous TXA in reducing blood loss and transfusion rate following THA without substantial complications.

Allogenic blood transfusion following total hip arthroplasty: results from the nationwide inpatient sample, 2000 to 2009

BACKGROUND

The large-scale utilization of allogenic blood transfusion and its associated outcomes have been described in critically ill patients and those undergoing high-risk cardiac surgery but not in patients undergoing elective total hip arthroplasty. The objective of this study was to determine the trends in utilization and outcomes of allogenic blood transfusion in patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty in the United States from 2000 to 2009.

METHODS

An observational cohort of 2,087,423 patients who underwent primary total hip arthroplasty from 2000 to 2009 was identified in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification procedure codes 99.03 and 99.04 were used to identify patients who received allogenic blood products during their hospital stay. Risk factors for allogenic transfusions were identified with use of multivariable logistic regression models. We used propensity score matching to estimate the adjusted association between transfusion and surgical outcomes.

RESULTS

The rate of allogenic blood transfusion increased from 11.8% in 2000 to 19.0% in 2009. Patient-related risk factors for receiving an allogenic blood transfusion include an older age, female sex, black race, and Medicaid insurance. Hospital-related risk factors include rural location, smaller size, and non-academic status. After adjusting for confounders, allogenic blood transfusion was associated with a longer hospital stay (0.58 ± 0.02 day; p < 0.001), increased costs ($1731 ± $49 [in 2009 U.S. dollars]; p < 0.001), increased rate of discharge to an inpatient facility (odds ratio, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.26 to 1.31), and worse surgical and medical outcomes. In-hospital mortality was not affected by allogenic blood transfusion (odds ratio, 0.97; 95% confidence interval, 0.77 to 1.21).

CONCLUSIONS

The increase in allogenic blood transfusion among total hip arthroplasty patients is concerning considering the associated increase in surgical complications and adverse events. The risk factors for transfusion and its impact on costs and inpatient outcomes can potentially be used to enhance patient care through optimizing preoperative discussions and effective utilization of blood-conservation methods.

Predictors and complications of blood transfusion in total hip and knee arthroplasty

Perioperative patient optimization can minimize the need for blood transfusions in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The purpose of this study was to determine predictors and complications of transfusions. This retrospective review analyzed 1795 patients who underwent primary THA and TKA at our institution between January 2011 and December 2012. Of the 1573 patients ultimately included the rates of transfusion were 9.27% in TKA and 26.6% in THA. Significant predictors for transfusion include: preoperative hemoglobin, age, female gender, body mass index, creatinine, TKA, operating room time, operative blood loss, and intra-operative fluids. The DVT rate was comparable, but deep surgical site infection rate among transfused patients was 2.4% compared to 0.5% in non-transfused patients (P = 0.0065).

Effectiveness of an autologous transfusion system following cemented and non-cemented revisions of total hip arthroplasty

PURPOSE

The goal of this study was to analyse the efficacy of blood autotransfusion using a continuous autologous transfusion system in revisions of total hip arthroplasty (THA). We looked at whether administration of allogeneic blood units was reduced in these cases and if there is a difference between cemented and non-cemented revisions.

METHODS

Between January 2011 and December 2011, patients being treated with revision THA were included (n = 411). The following parameters were analysed: patient age, gender, weight (kg), height (cm), body mass index (BMI, kg/m(2)), surgical diagnosis, treatment and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification score. The difference between pre- and post-operative haemoglobin (Hb, g/dl), amount of peri-operative blood loss (ml), amount of retransfused washed shed blood and amount of allogeneic and/or autologous transfusion (ml) were recorded.

RESULTS

In both the cemented and non-cemented revision THA groups, there was no significant difference between pre- and post-operative Hb with or without using an autotransfusion system. In 92 of 186 cemented cases using an autologous transfusion system (49.5%) and 38 of 117 non-cemented cases using an autologous transfusion system (32.5%), allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT) was required. Cemented procedures using an autologous transfusion system got significantly more ABTs than non-cemented procedures using an autologous transfusion system (p = 0.0042, odds ratio = 2.035).

CONCLUSIONS

Use of an autologous transfusion system did not reduce the amount of ABT in revision THA in the patient cohort reported here. In our opinion, general blood management is required before and during surgery to reduce administration of ABT.

Topical tranexamic acid reduces blood loss and transfusion rates associated with primary total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Systemic tranexamic acid can decrease blood loss and rates of transfusion in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, the efficacy of topical tranexamic acid in THA has only recently been characterized in a small number of studies.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

The purpose of this study was to compare (1) the greatest hemoglobin decrease after surgery; (2) transfusion rates; and (3) symptomatic thromboembolic events among patients undergoing THA who did and did not receive topical tranexamic acid.

METHODS

We retrospectively compared 135 patients (154 THAs) who received 10 mL 5% tranexamic acid added in a topical cocktail solution during surgery between January 2009 and July 2011 with 211 patients (234 THAs) who received only the topical cocktail solution (analgesic and antibiotic agent) between January 2005 and December 2008. Contraindications for the use of tranexamic acid included a documented history of a venous thromboembolic event, an allergy to tranexamic acid, thrombophilia, or a high risk of venous thromboembolism based on the guidelines of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; the 135 patients who received it during that period represented 99.4% of the patients undergoing THA during that time. We compared changes in Hb, transfusion rates, estimated blood loss, surgical results, and complications between the groups. The transfusion threshold was the same, when the Hb values were < 10 g/dL. Patients were screened for thromboembolic disease if symptoms or signs appeared.

RESULTS

Hb decreased less in the tranexamic acid group (1.87 ± 1.10 g/dL) than in the control group (2.2 ± 1.36 g/dL; p = 0.01) on the first postoperative day. The frequency of transfusion was lower in patients receiving tranexamic acid (17% as compared with 35% in the control group; p < 0.001). There was only one nonfatal pulmonary embolism in the control group during the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of topical tranexamic acid in patients undergoing THA reduces postoperative bleeding and decreases blood transfusion rates. No increase in major complications was identified in patients managed with topical tranexamic acid. This retrospective study confirms the results of a smaller randomized trial on the same topic by another group.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Serotonin reuptake inhibitors and bleeding risks in major orthopedic procedures

BACKGROUND

Risk of abnormal bleeding in surgery patients prescribed serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) is unclear. Considering the quantity of literature on abnormal gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding with SRIs, relatively little exists on SRI bleeding risks in surgical procedures. We investigated whether SRIs increase the risk of surgical bleeding in patients undergoing knee and hip total joint replacement.

METHODS

RA retrospective case-control study was conducted among subjects undergoing primary total hip and knee replacement surgeries from January 2005 to March 2011 at a single institution. The experimental group was defined by utilization of SRIs at the time of surgery (the independent variable). The control group was matched for age, sex, ethnicity, and type of surgery (hip or knee). Any case with preoperative hematocrit <30, platelets <100,000; abnormal prothrombin time, partial-prothrombin time, and international normalized ratio (INR), primary bleeding disorder, medical conditions, or medications associated with increased bleeding was excluded. All cases were randomly selected.

RESULTS

RA total of 194 subjects (hip 104, knee 90) were included. Statistical analysis was performed on the SRI group (n = 71) and the control, non-SRI group (n = 123). No difference was found between the groups in estimated blood loss, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, PT, PTT, and INR from preoperative to postoperative day 1, 2, and 3. Furthermore, no subjects in either group required blood transfusions.

CONCLUSION

SRIs were not associated with increased risk of bleeding in primary knee or hip replacement surgeries in this study. The hypothesis that SRIs increase the risk of bleeding based on presumptions about their action on platelet aggregation is uncertain and warrants further study.

The effect of autotransfusion system in minimally invasive total knee arthroplasty

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of autotransfusion system in minimally invasive total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Materials and Methods

Seventy-one patients who underwent unilateral minimally invasive TKA between October 2009 and June 2010 were selected. The first group included 36 patients who received standard vacuum drainage and the second group, 35 patients who underwent autologous retransfusion drainage. In the first group, allogeneic blood transfusion was performed if the postoperative hemoglobin level was <7.0 g/dL or 7.0-8.0 g/dL with the presence of a medical complication and an anemic symptom. The second group received autotransfusion and allogeneic transfusion additionally according to the same criteria. Changes in the pre- and postoperative hemoglobin level, amount of auto- or allotransfusion, and frequency of allogeneic transfusion were assessed.

Results

Allogeneic transfusion was required in 13 patients (36.1%) in the first group and four patients (11.4%) in the second group. The mean allogeneic transfusion volume was significantly low in the second group compared to the first group (64.4 mL vs. 278.9 mL; p<0.05). The hemoglobin level on the 1st postoperative day compared to the preoperative level decreased by 22.6% in the first group and 11.7% in the second group. The postoperative hemoglobin level was higher in the second group (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Minimally invasive unilateral TKA with an autotransfusion system can be beneficial in patients with no medical complications because of the decreased allogeneic transfusion.

Total joint replacement and blood loss: what is the best equation?

With the population aging, total joint replacements which are an effective method to restore patient's mobility are an increasing necessity. However, such operations are known to entail serious blood loss, which may have dramatic consequences in patients with chronic diseases or when the prosthesis is revised, a situation where the blood loss is even higher. Therefore, formulas to better estimate the blood loss are available. These formulas may also be used for clinical studies to compare blood loss between different joint replacement techniques. The aim of this review is to provide a clear understanding of the formulas and to help physicians to further improve their blood loss estimation. Moreover, surgeons will then be able to choose the most accurate and user-friendly formula for more comparable data between clinical studies.

Hemostatic matrix effects on blood loss after total knee arthroplasty: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can result in major postoperative blood loss which can impact on the recovery and rehabilitation of patients. It also requires expensive transfusions. The purpose of the study was to investigate whether a hemostatic matrix, composed of cross-linked gelatin and a thrombin solution, would reduce blood loss in patients following TKA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

THIS WAS A PROSPECTIVE, RANDOMIZED, CONTROLLED STUDY (TRIAL REGISTRATION: Hospital S. Salvatore L'Aquila ADJ00843) conducted in 93 patients. Criteria for participation were unilateral TKA for osteoarthritis, and a preoperative hemoglobin level >13 g/dL. The outcomes measured were postoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit levels measured at 24h, 72 h, and 7 days. The mean total postoperative blood loss was calculated from drainage volume, patient blood volume, hematocrit, and red blood cell volume. In addition, the drain output within 24 h following surgery and any transfusion requirements were determined.

RESULTS

Hemostatic matrix-treated patients (n = 51) showed significant reductions in calculated postoperative blood loss of 32.3% and 28.7% versus control in men and women, respectively (P < 0.01). Postoperative blood loss after 24 h in drain was significantly less with the hemostatic matrix versus control, as were decreases in hemoglobin levels 7 days post-surgery (each P < 0.01). Three patients in the control group required blood transfusion, whereas no blood transfusions were necessary in the hemostatic matrix group.

CONCLUSION

The use of a hemostatic matrix provides a safe and effective means to reduce blood loss and blood transfusion requirements in TKA.

Results of primary total knee arthroplasty in Jehovah's Witness patients

Total knee arthroplasty can be challenging in Jehovah's Witnesses, as these patients do not accept blood transfusions. We reported our experiences with a special blood management protocol for these patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty. There were 124 self-reported Jehovah's Witnesses who had a mean age of 64 years and who underwent total knee arthroplasties between 1998 and 2009. Mean follow-up was 60 months (range, 24-120 months). Implant survivorship, with revision for aseptic component failure as an end point, was 98%. At the final follow-up, mean Knee Society objective and function score improved to 91 and 81 points, respectively. The authors believe that this blood management protocol was responsible for performing safe and transfusion-free total knee arthroplasties that can ultimately lead to excellent outcomes.

Estimating the transfusion risk following total knee arthroplasty

Patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are likely to receive a blood transfusion, which may increase the risk of complications and prolong hospital stay. Considerable variation exists in transfusion practice among orthopedic surgeons following elective TKA. Previous studies have investigated the relationship between preoperative risk factors and the requirement for blood transfusions in patients undergoing a total hip or knee arthroplasty, but few have focused on transfusion risk in those specifically undergoing TKA.The authors performed a retrospective review of a prospectively collected database of 2281 patients undergoing unilateral TKA in a district general hospital over a 10-year period. Multiple regression analysis models were used to identify risk factors associated with postoperative blood transfusion. A predictive model was created based on the regression coefficients and factor levels. The risk of transfusion was independently predicted by the patients' age at surgery (P<.001), preoperative hemoglobin (P<.001), weight (P=.009) and lateral retinacular release (P<.001). The preoperative variables of age, hemoglobin, and weight were incorporated into a model to provide an estimation of the transfusion risk. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 74% (95% confidence interval, 70%-77.5%). This study identifies risk factors independently associated with the risk of requiring a blood transfusion following TKA. The predictive model stratifies the risk according to the individual patient in the preoperative setting, allowing preventative measures to take place preoperatively. It also helps in the counseling of patients at high risk of requiring a postoperative blood transfusion.

Computer assisted versus conventional total knee replacement: a comparison of tourniquet time, blood loss and length of stay

AIMS AND INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to assess whether navigated total knee arthroplasty (TKA) reduces peri-operative blood loss and post-operative length of stay when compared to conventional total knee arthroplasty techniques.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective case-note review of 143 patients undergoing primary elective total knee arthroplasty was carried out. Two surgeons in this institution perform conventional knee arthroplasty using intramedullary alignment with another two surgeons using the computer assisted technique. Blood losses were calculated using the Meunier et al. (2008) [23] method for calculation of peri-operative blood loss. This is based on changes in peri-operative blood indices compared to the patient's theoretical total blood volume which is calculated using the patient's pre-operative height and weight. Tourniquet time and post-operative length of stay for the two techniques of arthroplasty were also recorded.

RESULTS

Sixty eight patients underwent conventional TKA and 75 patients had navigated TKA's performed. This data showed no significant difference in blood loss (p=0.56) or post-operative length of stay (p=0.36). A significant difference in tourniquet time between the two techniques was demonstrated (p=0.01).

CONCLUSION

In this study there was no significant reduction in post-operative length of stay and peri-operative blood loss when using computer-assisted techniques. There was an increase in tourniquet time with the computer-assisted technique that may have implications upon work productivity for primary cemented knee arthroplasty.

Unipolar vs bipolar hemostasis in total knee arthroplasty: a prospective randomized trial

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether unipolar or bipolar hemostasis is more effective in reducing blood loss associated with primary total knee arthroplasty. We randomized 113 consecutive patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty into unipolar and bipolar hemostasis treatment groups. The mean postoperative drain output in the unipolar group was 776.5 mL compared with 778.7 mL and was not statistically significant (P = .97). There were no statistically significant differences in postoperative day 1 through 3 hemoglobin level (P = .2-.6) or hematocrit (P = .17-.46) values. The transfusion requirement in the unipolar group was 36% and 40% in the bipolar group (P = .67). Use of bipolar sealer compared with standard unipolar electrocauterization showed no significant difference in postoperative drain output, postoperative hemoglobin level and hematocrit values, or transfusion requirements.

The efficacy and safety of postoperative autologous transfusion of filtered shed blood and anticoagulant prophylaxis in total knee arthroplasty patients

PURPOSE

To assess the efficacy and safety of autologous transfusion of filtered shed blood in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 42 patients with TKA (group A; without autologous transfusion in 15 patients, group B; with autologous transfusion in 27 patients) were evaluated retrospectively. The influence of autologous reinfusion of filtered blood, bleeding tendency, amount of blood drainage, rate of allogenic transfusion, and the postoperative changes of hemoglobin were analyzed.

RESULTS

Allogenic transfusion was needed in 26.7% (4/15) of group A and none of group B till postoperative 48 hours. Till postoperative 14 days, 46.7% (7/15) of group A needed allogenic transfusion while 7.4% (2/27) in group B. The average drained blood volume was 1,197±400 mL in group A and 975±422 mL in group B. The average decrease of hemoglobin at postoperative 1, 7, and 14 days was 2.9±1.5, 2.9±1.6, and 2.3±1.5 g/dL respectively in group A and 2.7±0.8, 4.0±1.0, and 2.9±1.3 g/dL respectively in group B.

CONCLUSIONS

An autotransfusion system lowered the allogenic transfusion rate, while anticoagulants did not increase the amount of drained blood. An autotransfusion system with anticoagulants was effective and safe to save the shed blood in TKA.

Efficacy of preoperative autologous blood donation for elective posterior lumbar spinal surgery

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the transfusion patterns associated with preoperative autologous blood donation (PABD) during posterior lumbar spinal surgery.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

There is a paucity of evidence in the literature examining the utility of PABD in elective adult lumbar spinal surgery.

METHODS

Medical records of 541 patients treated for spinal stenosis between January 1997 and February 2000 were reviewed. Patients were divided into donors (PABD; n = 413) and nondonors (non PABD [NPABD]; n = 128).

RESULTS

Average preoperative hemoglobin (Hb) in the NPABD group was 0.62 units more than in the PABD group (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.30-0.94). For PABD patients, there was a negative correlation (-0.3) between preoperative Hb and number of units donated. PABD patients who donated 1 and 2 units of blood were, respectively, 7.5 and 9 times more likely to be transfused within the first 24 hours than NPABD patients. NPABD patients were 25 times more likely to need a transfusion of allogeneic blood than PABD patients who donated at least 2 units of blood. Autologous donation was an independent predictor of perioperative blood loss (P < 0.05). Patients who donated at least 2 units of blood lost approximately 1.3 units of Hb more than NPABD patients. The odds of wastage for a PABD patient who had a decompression with noninstrumented fusion were 8.64 times that of a PABD patient who had a decompression with instrumented fusion.

CONCLUSION

Autologous blood donation induced preoperative anemia and resulted in a lower transfusion threshold than allogeneic blood usage. In addition, we found that autologous donation significantly increased blood loss in the preoperative period as measured by Hb lost. Usage of autologous blood was significantly more efficient in patients who underwent instrumented fusion than in patients with less complex surgery.

Perioperative blood transfusion: the role of allogenous and autologous transfusions, and pharmacological agents

The decision to transfuse patients perioperatively is made on an individual basis and should consider factors such as duration and severity of anaemia, symptoms, physiological parameters and comorbidities. Autologous blood transfusion has the benefit of avoiding some of the immunological and infective complications associated with allogenic blood transfusion. Pharmacological agents as well as anaesthetic and surgical techniques have a role in avoiding the need for blood transfusion.

Dutch orthopedic blood management surveys 2002 and 2007: an increasing use of blood-saving measures

BACKGROUND

Hip and knee arthroplasties are frequently complicated by the need for allogeneic blood transfusions. The surveys were developed to assess the use of blood-saving measures in orthopedic surgery in the Netherlands in 2002 and 2007.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In 2002 and 2007, a questionnaire on blood management measures after several orthopedic procedures was sent to all Dutch orthopedic departments (110 and 96, respectively).

RESULTS

The response was 79% in 2002 and 84% in 2007. The use of preoperative autologous blood donation remained virtually unchanged in 2002 versus 2007 for both hip (10.9 and 10.5%) and knee (5.7 and 8.2%) arthroplasty. In 2007, there was a substantial increase in departments using erythropoietine for hip (31.6–66.1%) as well as knee (24.0–55.5%) arthroplasty. There was an increase of the use of autologous retransfusion of intraoperatively suctioned washed blood in hip (20.3–28.4%) as well as knee arthroplasty (8.9–16.1%) over the 5-year period, but it was predominantly used in revision hip arthroplasty (54.3%). The use of postoperative autologous retransfusion of filtered drained wound blood increased dramatically in 5 years time in hip (11.5–51.0%) and knee arthroplasty (15.9–59.3%).

CONCLUSION

There is an evident increase in the preoperative use of erythropoietin and the postoperative use of autologous retransfusion of drained blood among Dutch orthopedic departments. There appears to be an increasing awareness and positive attitude among Dutch orthopedic surgeons to implement perioperative blood-saving measures.

Predicting transfusion in shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

This study was conducted to evaluate the incidence of transfusion in shoulder arthroplasty, determine clinical factors associated with increased risk for transfusion, and develop an algorithm to assist the surgeon in preoperative planning with regards to blood management.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study had 2 phases: (1) development of a clinical prediction rule for transfusion using 280 procedures and (2) a validation study of the algorithm applied to 109 new patients. Phase 1 consisted of a retrospective record review of 280 consecutive shoulder arthroplasties to determine risk factors for transfusion. Phase 1 also identified a preoperative hemoglobin level of less than 12.5 g/dL as predictive of the need for blood transfusion. This cutoff was prospectively applied to 109 patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty in phase 2.

RESULTS

The transfusion rate for phase 1 was 19.6%. Preoperative hemoglobin level (P < .001), age (P= .003), and the number of comorbid conditions (P = .005) were statistically significant risk factors. Patients with a preoperative hemoglobin level of less than 12.5 g/dL have a 4-fold increased risk of requiring a blood transfusion. In phase 2, the cutoff of less than 12.5 g/dL yielded a sensitivity of 88%, specificity of 78%, and positive and negative likelihood ratios of 4.0 and 0.15, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative hemoglobin level, age, and number of comorbid conditions are all predictive of transfusion in shoulder arthroplasty. Tailoring blood ordering based on a preoperative hemoglobin level of 12.5 g/dL is safe and effective.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic study, level 2.

The role of fibrin sealants in orthopaedic surgery

Blood conservation, specifically the avoidance of allogeneic blood transfusion, is becoming an important aspect of preoperative planning and intraoperative decision making in orthopaedic surgery. Knee and hip arthroplasty, as well as certain spine procedures, place patients at risk of significant blood loss. Fibrin sealants are topically applied hemostatic agents that reduce the time required to achieve hemostasis as well as the volume of blood loss. Fibrin sealants may provide additional benefits beyond hemostasis, such as improvements in wound healing and postoperative range of motion as well as lower rates of wound infections.

Blood loss in computer-assisted mobile bearing total knee arthroplasty. A comparison of computer-assisted surgery with a conventional technique

Computer-assisted surgery (CAS) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) could be useful in reducing the overall blood loss. A prospective randomised study was performed with two groups of 50 patients each of whom were treated for knee arthritis. Patients of group A were treated by a conventional standard procedure, while for patients of group B a specific CAS procedure was used. We determined the intraoperative blood loss according to the Orthopaedic Surgery Transfusion Haemoglobin European Overview (OSTHEO) study. The average blood loss in patients of group A was 1,974 ml (range: 450-3,930 ml) compared to 1,677 ml of patients of group B (range: 500-2,634 ml). A statistically significant difference was found between the two groups (p = 0.0283). Computer-assisted surgery is highly recommended in TKR to save blood. It creates more possibilities to operate on anaemic patients and subjects who cannot accept blood products by reducing blood loss risk.

Research on coagulation of unwashed shed blood after total knee replacement in Chinese patients

To evaluate quality of unwashed but filtered wound shed blood through ConstaVac blood conservation system (Stryker Company) after total knee replacement, we selected 30 patients who underwent total knee replacement consecutively from July 2003 to July 2004 and received retransfusion of wound shed blood. Pre- and postoperative coagulative factors of peripheral vein blood and wound shed blood were measured, such as fibrinogen, AT-III, D-dimer, plasminogen, and PT, APTT were also measured. No clinical evidence of coagulation and DIC appeared in these patients. There is significant change of coagulative factors in unwashed but filtered wound shed blood and it may cause a potential risk of coagulopathy to retransfuse wound shed blood, but retransfusion of unwashed but filtered shed blood appeared to be relative safe clinically.

Utilization of Predonated Autologous Blood in Anterior Cervical Corpectomy and Fusion Surgery

OBJECTIVE

To determine the utilization of predonated autologous blood in patients treated with anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF).

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of 154 patients who underwent 1, 2, or 3-level ACCF over a 6-year period was performed. Variables collected included patterns of autologous and allogenic blood use, blood loss, and hematocrit at admission and discharge from the hospital.

RESULTS

For 1-level ACCF, only 16.7% of the predonated autologous blood was used. As expected, use of predonated autologous blood increased with the number of corpectomy levels: Patients with 2 and 3-level ACCF used 29.0% and 53.4% of the predonated blood, respectively. The use of autologous blood significantly reduced the need for allogenic blood transfusion for 2 and 3-level ACCF.

CONCLUSIONS

Autologous blood was used efficiently in 3-level ACCF, and predonation is associated with decreased allogeneic blood transfusion requirement in 2 and 3-level ACCF.

Blood transfusion requirement prediction in patients undergoing primary total hip and knee arthroplasty

The aim of this study was to identify the clinical factors associated with the need for peri-operative blood transfusion in non-anaemic patients undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty. We prospectively evaluated 162 consecutive patients who underwent total hip or knee arthroplasty. Analysis was performed to establish the relationship between all independent variables and the need for postoperative transfusion. Univariate analysis revealed a significant relationship between the need for postoperative blood transfusion and the pre-operative haemoglobin levels (P= 0.001), weight (P= 0.019) and age (P= 0.018). Multivariate analysis identified a significant relationship only between the need for transfusion and the pre-operative haemoglobin level (P= 0.0001). The pre-operative haemoglobin level of the patient was the only variable to independently predict the need for blood transfusion after primary hip or knee arthroplasty.

Preoperative use of recombinant human erythropoietin in pediatric orthopedics: a decision model for long-term outcomes

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Spine surgery for scoliosis is associated with significant blood loss and may require blood transfusion. The risks inherent in blood transfusion have inspired interventions, including human recombinant erythropoietin (rHuEPO), which has emerged as a safe and effective adjunct in minimizing exposure to allogenic blood in children undergoing scoliosis surgery. However, there is little information in the literature on their economic impact on the health-care system.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of rHuEPO in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

We designed a decision analytic model capturing costs and potential long-term outcomes of transfusion-related complications to compare the cost-effectiveness of preoperative rHuEPO with a control group and a common alternative, preoperative autologous donation (PAD).

PATIENT SAMPLE

This is a decision analytic model. Decision modeling relies on a summation of the probability of different clinical studies; no patients were specifically studied.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The standard cost-effectiveness ratio (C/E) of $50,000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) was used as the threshold value for determining the cost-effectiveness of these two preoperative intervention strategies.

METHODS

From the model we calculated the probability that a patient would experience transfusion-related complications based on the mean number of allogenic units transferred as a result of scoliosis surgery. The standard C/E of $50,000 per QALY was used as the threshold value for determining the cost-effectiveness. Some aspects of the model were derived from retrospective data from the literature. Sensitivity analyses were also conducted to discover which variables, when changed within the accepted range, caused the final result of the model to change significantly.

RESULTS

Results indicated a cost per year-of-life-saved exceeding $1 million for the PAD arm and over $1.5 million for the rHuEPO arm. The low rates of transfusion in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis surgery and the relative safety of the blood supply create a scenario where even inexpensive interventions are not cost-effective. However, rHuEPO would become cost-effective if decreased transfusion rates or higher postoperative hematocrit resulted in decreased length of stay.

CONCLUSION

The use of rHuEPO preoperatively and the use of PAD are not cost-effective although both techniques remain clinically effective tools.

Blood-sparing efficiency of transdermal nitroglycerine during open fixation of femur shaft fractures: a randomized, double-blind study

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of transdermal nitroglycerine for reducing blood loss during open fixation of femur shaft fractures.

DESIGN

Randomized, double blind, clinical trial.

SETTING

University-affiliated hospital.

PATIENTS

60 ASA physical status I and II patients undergoing elective open fixation of femur shaft fractures.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomized to two groups: those who received 3-in (7.5 cm) transdermal nitroglycerine (group N) or 3-in (7.5 cm) placebo (group P). All the drugs used for induction and maintenance of anesthesia were similar in both groups and administered according to the patient's weight.

MEASUREMENTS

In both groups, baseline heart rate and blood pressure were recorded and then measured every 5 minutes thereafter. Routine estimation, as well as a mathematical model of blood loss calculation, was used to determine intraoperative blood loss.

MAIN RESULTS

Group N had a significant lower systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure than those of group P during the operation. The mean estimated blood loss in group N (443.4 +/- 158.0 mL) was significantly lower than that in group P (950.0 +/- 554.9 mL). The calculated blood loss (622.7 +/- 192.4 mL) in group N was also significantly lower than that in group P (1232.1 +/- 630.4 mL).

CONCLUSION

By inducing moderate hypotension, the use of transdermal nitroglycerine decreases intraoperative blood loss and the need for transfusion.

Analysis of transfusion predictors in shoulder arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

We are not aware of any previous study that has examined predictive factors for blood transfusion after shoulder arthroplasty. We analyzed the association between clinical factors and the need for postoperative blood transfusion and documented the use and waste of predonated blood in a group of patients managed with shoulder arthroplasty.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 119 patients who underwent 124 shoulder arthroplasties (including eighty-seven primary uncomplicated total shoulder arthroplasties, twenty-seven revision or complicated primary total shoulder arthroplasties, and ten hemiarthroplasties) from 2001 to 2004 was performed. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine which clinical variables were predictive of transfusion.

RESULTS

A postoperative transfusion was received after thirty-one arthroplasties (25%). The strongest predictor of blood transfusion after shoulder arthroplasty was the preoperative hemoglobin level (likelihood ratio test = 37.8, p < 0.0001). Patients with a preoperative hemoglobin level of between 110 and 130 g/L had a five times greater estimated risk of transfusion than those with a level of >130 g/L (p < 0.001). Gender, body mass index, preoperative diagnosis, comorbid conditions, use of anticoagulants or aspirin, autologous predonation status, type of anesthesia, operative time, and decrease in hemoglobin or hematocrit were not predictors of blood transfusion. One hundred and two (78%) of the 131 predonated autologous units were discarded. Patients with a preoperative hemoglobin level of >130 g/L had the highest percentage of wasted units (90%; fifty-five of sixty-one). Preoperative autologous blood donation did not eliminate the risk of allogeneic blood transfusion in autologous donors.

CONCLUSIONS

The preoperative hemoglobin level is the strongest predictor of blood transfusion after shoulder surgery, and individuals with a preoperative hemoglobin level of <110 g/L have the highest risk of transfusion. On the basis of these findings, we do not recommend autologous predonation for individuals with a preoperative hemoglobin level of >130 g/L, to avoid unnecessary expense and waste.

Coagulation parameters after retransfusion of unwashed blood

Postoperative blood salvage reduces the risk of allogenic transfusion in patients undergoing elective total joint arthroplasty. We measured the concentrations of coagulation parameters after autotransfusion of unwashed shed blood in 22 patients having elective joint arthroplasty and compared them with patients without retransfusion. Twenty-two patients with a total hip or knee arthroplasty received a mean of 611.4 mL unwashed but filtered shed blood. No complications were observed during or after the reinfusion of salvaged blood. Levels of D-dimer and fibrinogen increased significantly over time after retransfusion (P < .0001). Comparison of the autotransfused group with the 25 patients without reinfused shed blood showed no significant difference in fibrinogen concentration between the 2 groups in the postoperative course but a significant difference with increased D-dimer concentrations in the autotransfused group (P < .001).

Perioperative autotransfusion in total hip and knee arthroplasty

We assessed the OrthoPAT Orthopedic Perioperative Autotransfusion System (Zimmer Inc, Warsaw, Ind) in reducing the need for allogeneic blood in hip or knee arthroplasty. Patients (N = 398) were divided into 5 cohorts: unilateral primary hip (n = 131), unilateral revision hip (n = 38), unilateral primary knee (n = 179), unilateral revision knee (n = 26), and bilateral primary knee (n = 24). Primary or revision hip arthroplasties with no preoperative autologous blood donation, knee arthroplasties with no preoperative autologous blood donation, and unilateral primary hip arthroplasties were 2.7, 2.3, and 2 times less likely (P < .05), respectively, to use allogeneic blood with OrthoPAT. We conclude that OrthoPAT use significantly reduced the risk of receiving allogeneic blood transfusions in defined patient subsets.

Blood loss after total knee replacement: effects of computer-assisted surgery

We carried out a prospective randomised study to evaluate the blood loss in 60 patients having a total knee arthroplasty and divided randomly into two equal groups, one having a computer-assisted procedure and the other a standard operation. The surgery was carried out by a single surgeon at one institution using a uniform approach. The only variable in the groups was the use of intramedullary femoral and tibial alignment jigs in the standard group and single tracker pins of the imageless navigation system in the tibia and femur in the navigated group. The mean drainage of blood was 1351 ml (715 to 2890; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1183 to 1518) in the computer-aided group and 1747 ml (1100 to 3030; CI 1581 to 1912) in the conventional group. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.001). The mean calculated loss of haemoglobin was 36 g/dl in the navigated group versus 53 g/dl in the conventional group; this was significant at p < 0.00001. There was a highly significant reduction in blood drainage and the calculated Hb loss between the computer-assisted and the conventional techniques. This allows the ordering of less blood before the operation, reduces risks at transfusion and gives financial saving. Computer-assisted surgery may also be useful for patients in whom blood products are not acceptable.

Haemoglobin levels following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: influence of transfusion practice and surgical approach

A retrospective review was undertaken of preoperative and day 3 postoperative haemoglobin (Hb) levels in all unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) procedures performed by a single surgeon. Sixty-six UKAs were performed using the same prosthesis through an open approach with patella eversion. This group was compared with 212 UKAs performed using a minimally invasive approach without patella eversion, with an implant and instrumentation specifically devised for this approach. Both groups were well matched for patient demographics, surgical and anaesthetic techniques, thromboprophylaxis, and postoperative regimes. All patients received transfusions with pre-donated blood, except the unilateral minimally invasive approach group. An analysis of covariance was undertaken to examine the influence of the surgical approach and whether surgery was unilateral or bilateral, taking into account preoperative Hb levels and units of blood transfused. The average fall in Hb following UKA, adjusted for other variables, was 2.73 g/dl with an open approach compared to 1.82 g/dl with a minimally invasive approach. This difference was significant (p=0.0044). The average postoperative Hb in the minimally invasive group was 12.05 g/dl (range, 8.8 to 15.8 g/dl). Patients undergoing unilateral minimally invasive UKA are unlikely to develop symptomatic anaemia and should not be required to predonate blood or undergo transfusion.

A blood-conservation algorithm to reduce blood transfusions after total hip and knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Donation of autologous blood before total joint arthroplasty is inconvenient and costly, causes a phlebotomy-induced anemia, and may be wasteful and unnecessary for the nonanemic patient. We developed a blood-conservation algorithm that does not require predonation of autologous blood, employs selective use of epoetin alfa, and uses evidence-based transfusion criteria. Our hypothesis was that use of this algorithm would reduce the rate of transfusion after unilateral total hip and knee arthroplasty as compared with the rates described in previous reports.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 500 consecutive patients in whom unilateral primary total hip or knee arthroplasty had been performed by a single surgeon. The same blood-conservation algorithm was recommended to all patients. Two groups of patients were identified: the first group consisted of 433 patients in whom the algorithm was followed, and the second group consisted of sixty-seven patients in whom the algorithm was not followed.

RESULTS

In the group in which the algorithm was followed, the rates of allogeneic transfusion after total knee and total hip arthroplasty were 1.4% (three of 220) and 2.8% (six of 213), respectively. The overall rate of transfusion in this group was only 2.1% (nine of 433). The prevalence of transfusion in the group in which the algorithm was not followed was 16.4% (eleven of sixty-seven). This difference was significant (p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of this blood-conservation algorithm resulted in a significant reduction in the need for allogeneic blood transfusions after unilateral total hip and knee arthroplasty, and the results compare favorably with the rates of transfusion described in previous reports.