Clinical factors associated with an increased risk of perioperative blood transfusion in nonanemic patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty

How to avoid systematic postoperative blood test after total hip arthroplasty: A new risk scoring system compared to Wu's score

BACKGROUND

Routine laboratory studies are often performed following total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, lately, their necessity has been challenged and risk factors for postoperative transfusion are still debated. Recently, a risk scoring system to single out patients that should have a postoperative blood test has been published by Wu et al. The purposes of this retrospective study were: (1) to validate this recently published risk scoring system to identify patients who should have a postoperative laboratory test; (2) to single out risk factors of postoperative transfusion; (3) to determine if another score can more accurately predict the need for postoperative transfusion.

HYPOTHESIS

Wu et al.'s risk scoring system can accurately identify patients who should have a postoperative blood test.

METHODS

In all, 1693 patients who underwent primary THAs between June 2015 and October 2020 were screened for potential eligibility to include 1000 patient for analysis. Preoperative and postoperative blood tests were done for every patient. Clinical information and laboratory results were retrospectively collected and analyzed. A descriptive analysis followed by univariate and multivariate analysis were sequentially performed. A multiple logistic regression model was employed to determine a formula predicting the transfusion risk called THABUS for Total Hip Arthroplasty Blood test Usefulness Score. The risk scoring system for complete blood count published by Wu et al. in may 2020 was performed for every patient and compared to the THABUS predictive model.

RESULTS

The transfusion rate was 2.3% (23/1000). The risk-scoring system published by Wu and al. showed that a laboratory test was necessary for 60.6% (606/1000) however 13% (3/23) of the patients who needed a blood transfusion were missed by the risk-scoring system, giving it a sensitivity of 86.95% and a specificity of 40%. Increasing age, arterial hypertension, female gender, low preoperative hemoglobin, ASA score≥2 and diagnosis of osteonecrosis of the femoral head were significantly associated with postoperative transfusion. The THABUS formula can predict the risk for transfusion with a sensibility of 96.65% and a specificity of 75.54%. In our cohort of 1000 patients, following the THABUS formula would have led to 261 postoperative blood test and cost savings of 32,132$. Only one patient (4.3%) was missed by our new score. The THABUS formula is significantly better than Wu et al.'s complete blood count score in identifying both patient that will need a transfusion (p<0.01) and those who shouldn't have a postoperative blood test (p<0.001). Medical intervention because of creatinine or electrolytes abnormality was needed in 0.3% (3/1000) of patients.

DISCUSSION

In this study Wu et al.'s recently published complete blood count risk-scoring system was not validated. However, in the studied population the THABUS formula can accurately target patients who might need a transfusion. The use of the THABUS formula could reduce hospitalization costs without compromising the patients' safety.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, case-control study.

Assessment of perioperative total blood loss during total ankle arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Although many authors have discussed total blood loss after arthroplasty of the knee, hip, and shoulder, reports on perioperative blood loss after total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) are rare. The purpose of this study was to assess total blood loss after TAA and to identify correlated factors.

METHODS

A total of 103 cases (99 patients) of TAA for end-stage ankle osteoarthritis were enrolled in this study. Perioperative total blood loss was divided into intraoperative and postoperative blood loss. The patient-related variables evaluated for total blood loss were age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists Classification score, comorbidities, history of previous ankle surgery, preoperative use of anticoagulants, platelet count and prothrombin time/international normalized ratio. Operation-related variables including type of anesthesia, operation time, TAA implant, and procedures performed in addition to TAA (if any) were evaluated to analyze correlations with total blood loss. In addition, the rate of transfusions after surgery was identified, and risk factors for transfusion were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

The total blood loss was mean 795.5±351.1mL, which included 462.2±248.5mL of intraoperative blood loss and 333.2±228.6mL of postoperative blood loss. Sex, TAA implant, and additional bony procedures performed along with TAA were significantly correlated with total blood loss (p=0.039, 0.024, 0.024, respectively) but the other variables were not significant (p>0.05). Transfusions were administered for 4 cases (3.8%) but no risk factors for transfusion could be identified.

CONCLUSION

The total blood loss after TAA was 795.5mL and the rate of transfusions was 3.8%. This study demonstrated that male sex, use of TAA implants with a larger cutting surface, and bony procedures performed in addition to TAA were associated with an increase in total blood loss after TAA. The findings of this study will help surgeons to better predict blood loss and make optimal surgical plans accordingly.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, retrospective case series.

O papel do ácido tranexâmico na prevenção e gerenciamento da perda de sangue na artroplastia total de articulação

Objective  To collect data on the role played by tranexamic acid in the prevention and management of blood loss in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty.

Methods  In the present prospective, comparative study, 30 patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were randomly allocated into 1 of 2 groups with 15 patients each. Tranexamic acid was administered by intravenous and topical routes in the study group, but it was not administered in the control group. Preoperative blood parameters, intraoperative and postoperative blood loss, and need for blood transfusion were noted. Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-squared test and the independent t -test.

Results  The study group had statistically significant higher postoperative hemoglobin values ( p  = 0.03), less difference between pre and postoperative hemoglobin value ( p  = 0.046), less difference between pre and postoperative packed-cell volume ( p  = 0.06), less intraoperative measured blood loss ( p  = 0.015), and less volume of blood collected in the drain ( p  = 0.0291) compared with the control group. There was also reduced frequency of blood transfusions in the study group ( p  = 0.0008).

Conclusion  Tranexamic acid is associated with reduced intra and postoperative blood loss and reduced frequency of blood transfusions in patients undergoing THA/TKA.

Prolonged operative time increases risk of blood loss and transfusion requirements in revision hip surgery

INTRODUCTION

Revision hip surgery is well documented to have a high association with substantial blood loss and the associated need for a blood transfusion. This exposes the patient to increased risk of transfusion reaction and blood borne infection. There are many strategies to minimize allogeneic transfusion rates in revision surgery such as pre-operative autologous donation, peri-operative tranexamic acid, thrombin sealants, normovolaemic haemodilution, intra-operative blood salvage and the use of post-operative autologous drains.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We prospectively looked at 177 consecutive cases performed at one centre by a single surgical and anaesthetic team to identify which patient and operative factors were most significant in minimizing the requirement for an allogeneic blood transfusion.

RESULTS

Our results identified the duration of surgery as being the only significant variable affecting the level of blood loss. We noted a 3% increase in the probability of massive blood loss (> 2000 mls) for every minute of increased surgical time in our series.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that measures to minimize the duration of surgery would be beneficial in reducing blood loss and the risks of requiring blood transfusions in revision hip surgery.

Review article: Patient characteristics that act as risk factors for intraoperative complications in hip, knee, and shoulder arthroplasties

The number of annual THA's, TKA's, and TSA's is set to increase significantly by the year 2030, making it imperative to understand the risks for negative outcomes in these procedures. While research has studied the patient risk factors for perioperative and postoperative complications, there has been relatively little research for intraoperative complications. After a thorough literature review, the most supported finding was that patients with a BMI >30 had significantly more intraoperative blood loss than those with a BMI <30. All other relationships between patient risk factors and intraoperative complications of interest were inadequately studied.

A rationale for universal tranexamic acid in major joint arthroplasty: overall efficacy and impact of risk factors for transfusion

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) therapy is effective in reducing postoperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in total joint arthroplasty (TJA), yet uncertainty persists regarding comparative efficacy and safety among specific patient subgroups. We assessed the impact of a universal TXA protocol on RBC transfusion, postoperative hemoglobin (Hb), and adverse outcomes to determine whether TXA is safe and effective in TJA, both overall and in clinically relevant subgroups.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A retrospective observational study was performed on patients undergoing TJA at our institution spanning 1 year before and after the implementation of a universal protocol to administer intravenous (IV) TXA. The primary outcome was percentage of patients transfused, and secondary outcomes were perioperative Hb and occurrence of adverse events (death, myocardial infarction, stroke, seizure, pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, and acute kidney injury ). Outcomes were compared in pre- and post-protocol groups with χ² analysis. Logistic regression compared risk of transfusion in pre- and post-protocol subgroups of patients with differing risk for transfusion (anemia, body mass index [BMI], and sex).

RESULTS

No differences were found in baseline patient characteristics across pre- and post-protocol groups (n = 1084 and 912, respectively). TXA use increased from 32.3% to 92.2% while transfusion rates decreased from 10.3% to 4.8% (p < 0.001). Postoperative Day 3 Hb increased from 95.8 to 101.4 g/L (p < 0.001). Logistic regression demonstrated reduced transfusion in post-protocol subgroups regardless of sex, anemia, or BMI (p < 0.001). No increase in adverse events was observed (p = 0.8451).

CONCLUSIONS

Universal TXA was associated with a reduction of RBC transfusion, overall and in clinically relevant subgroups, strengthening the rationale for universal therapy.

Patients With Infected Total Hip Arthroplasty Undergoing 2-Stage Exchange Arthroplasty Experience Massive Blood Loss

BACKGROUND

Two-stage exchange arthroplasty is the preferred treatment for chronic periprosthetic joint infection following total hip arthroplasty (THA). These patients are at high risk of substantial blood loss and perioperative blood transfusion. Our study aimed at determining risk factors for blood transfusion during a 2-stage exchange for infected THA.

METHODS

Medical records of 297 patients with infected THA who underwent 2-stage exchange arthroplasty from 1997 to 2016 were reviewed. Blood loss was calculated using a validated formula. Transfusion data, clinical information, and operative data were gathered to determine predictors of blood loss and risk factors for perioperative allogeneic blood transfusion.

RESULTS

Calculated blood loss was significantly higher during reimplantation than resection arthroplasty (5156.0 ± 3402 mL vs 3706.9 ± 2148 mL; P < .0001). Blood transfusion was needed in 81% after resection and 81.1% after reimplantation. Allogeneic blood transfusion averaged 3.6 ± 1.8 units for stage 1 and 4.2 ± 2.9 units for stage 2 (P = .0066). Patient characteristics that increased the likelihood for perioperative blood transfusions were increasing preoperative international normalized ratio, type 2 diabetes, current smoking, age, and transfusion requirement in the first stage. Tranexamic acid usage was associated with decreased blood loss.

CONCLUSION

Patients with periprosthetic joint infection following THA have significant blood loss during both stages of exchange arthroplasty, especially reimplantation. Hematological optimization should be considered in all patients requiring a transfusion after the first stage, as these patients are at greater risk of requiring transfusion after the second stage. The use of tranexamic acid dramatically decreases the risk of requiring a transfusion in both stages and should be more ubiquitously incorporated into blood management protocols.

Analysis of a large data set to identify predictors of blood transfusion in primary total hip and knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to identify the predictors of need for allogenic blood transfusion (ALBT) in primary lower limb total joint arthroplasty (TJA).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This study utilized a large dataset of 15,187 patients undergoing primary unilateral TJA. Risk factors and demographic information were extracted from the electronic health record. A predictive model was developed by both a random forest (RF) algorithm and logistic regression (LR). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) was used to compare the accuracy of the two methods.

RESULTS

The rate of ALBT was 18.9% in total. Patient-related factors associated with higher risk of an ALBT included female sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) II, ASA III, and ASA IV. Surgery-related risk factors for ALBT were operative time, drain use, and amount of intraoperative blood loss. Higher preoperative hemoglobin and tranexamic acid use were associated with decreased risk for ALBT. The RF model had a better predictive accuracy (area under the curve [AUC] 0.84) than the LR model (AUC, 0.77; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The risk factors identified in the current study can provide specific, personalized perioperative ALBT risk assessment for a patient considering lower limb TJA. Furthermore, the predictive accuracy of the RF algorithm was significantly higher than that of LR, making it a potential tool for future personalized preoperative prediction of risk for perioperative ALBT.

Enhanced recovery after surgery for primary hip and knee arthroplasty: a review of the evidence

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols produce significant clinical and economic benefits in a range of surgical subspecialties. There is a long tradition of applying clinical pathways to the perioperative care of joint arthroplasty patients. Enhanced recovery after surgery represents the next step in the evolution of standardized care. To date, reports of full ERAS pathways for hip or knee arthroplasty are lacking. In this narrative review, we present the evidence base that can be usefully applied to constructing ERAS pathways for hip or knee arthroplasty. The history and rationale for applying ERAS to joint arthroplasty are explained. Evidence demonstrates improved outcomes after joint arthroplasty when a standardized approach to care is implemented. The efficacy of individual ERAS components in hip or knee replacement is considered, including preoperative education, intraoperative anaesthetic techniques, postoperative analgesia, and early mobilization after joint arthroplasty. Interventions lacking high-quality evidence are identified, together with recommendations for future research. Based on currently available evidence, we present a model ERAS pathway that can be applied to perioperative care of patients undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty.

Combined use of intravenous and topical versus intravenous tranexamic acid in primary total joint arthroplasty: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

To compare the safety and efficacy of combined use of intravenous and topical tranexamic acid with that of intravenous tranexamic acid in primary total joint arthroplasty.

METHODS

Literature was searched in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Medline, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases. Only randomized controlled trials were included in our study. Data were using fixed-effects or random-effects models with standard mean differences and risk ratios for continuous and dichotomous variables, respectively.

RESULTS

Seven randomized controlled trials encompassing 683 patients were retrieved for this meta-analysis. Outcomes showed that when compared with intravenous tranexamic acid, combined use of intravenous and topical tranexamic acid could significantly reduce total blood loss by a mean of 138.70 mL [95% confidence interval (CI): -196.14 to -81.26, p < 0.001], transfusion rates (risk ratio 0.42, 95% CI: 0.2 to 0.85, p < 0.001). No significant difference in the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism was found between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis indicated that comparing with only intravenous tranexamic acid, combined use of intravenous and topical tranexamic acid can significantly reduce blood loss and transfusion rate in primary total joint arthroplasty without increasing the risk of thrombotic complications. Therefore, we suggest that tranexamic acid should be intravenously combined with topically administered in primary total joint arthroplasty.

Are Preoperative Serologic Type and Screen Tests Necessary for Primary Total Joint Arthroplasty Patients in Specialty Surgical Hospitals?

BACKGROUND

Blood loss during total joint arthroplasty (TJA) has been a major concern requiring routine preoperative patient type and screen (T&S); however, with the implementation of blood conserving therapy, a marked decrease for perioperative transfusions has been observed. Many TJAs are now being performed in T&S mandated specialty surgical hospitals (SSHs) that lack on-site blood banks; therefore, the purpose of our study was to determine whether T&S (1) is necessary in SSH for TJA patients and (2) identifies patient risk factors associated with perioperative blood transfusion in SSH.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted on 1034 consecutive primary TJAs performed between 2013 and 2014 at a 12-bed SSH who all received T&S. Patients were matched (1:1) to 964 inpatient TJA patients performed at a university hospital without routine T&S. Data on surgery type, patient demographics, hemoglobin and hematocrit results, and transfusion rates were collected. Multivariate logistic regression identified perioperative transfusion risk factors.

RESULTS

Overall transfusion rates for the matched SSH (1.8% [17/964]) and university hospital populations (2.9% [28/964]) were similar (P = .13), with no emergent transfusions. SSH transfusion rates for simultaneous bilateral THA, simultaneous bilateral TKA, unilateral THA, and unilateral TKA were 21.1% (4/19), 3.1% (4/128), 2.7% (12/439), and 0.0% (0/448), respectively. Multivariate logistic regression identified unilateral THA (P ≤ .001), simultaneous bilateral TJA (P = .001), age (P = .05), and abnormal preoperative hemoglobin (P = .02) as significant transfusion risk factors at SSH.

CONCLUSION

Due to low transfusion rates and lack of emergency transfusions, we recommend routinely ordering T&S for bilateral THA but not for unilateral TJA patients, at SSHs.

Primary Joint Arthroplasty Surgery: Is the Risk of Major Bleeding Higher in Elderly Patients? A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Increased risk of bleeding after major orthopedic surgery (MOS) has been widely documented in general population. However, this complication has not been studied in elderly patients. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the risk of major bleeding after MOS is higher in elderly patients, compared with those operated at a younger age.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included total hip and total knee arthroplasty patients operated during 5 consecutive years. The main outcome was the occurrence of major bleeding. Patients with other causes of bleeding were excluded. Relative risks (RRs) and confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and a multivariate analysis was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 1048 patients were included, 56% of patients were hip arthroplasties. At the time of surgery, 553 (53%) patients were older than 70 years. Patients aged >70 years showed an increased risk of major bleeding (RR: 2.42 [95% CI: 1.54-3.81]). For hip arthroplasty, the RR of bleeding was 2.61 (95%CI: 1.50-4.53) and 2.25 (95% CI: 1.03-4.94) for knee arthroplasty. After multivariate analysis, age was found to be independently associated with higher risk of major bleeding.

CONCLUSION

According to European Medicines Agency criteria, patients aged ≥70 years are at a higher risk of major bleeding after MOS, result of a higher frequency of blood transfusions in this group of patients. Standardized protocols for blood transfusion in these patients are still required.

Body mass index, risk of allogeneic red blood cell transfusion, and mortality in elderly patients undergoing hip fracture surgery

Despite improvements in preoperative and postoperative treatment, hip fracture surgery may lead to blood transfusion. Little is known about the impact of body mass index on transfusion risk and subsequent mortality. Opposite overweight and obese patients, underweight patients had increased risk of transfusion and death within 1 year of surgery.

INTRODUCTION

Despite improvements in preoperative and postoperative treatment of hip fracture patients, hip fracture surgery may lead to blood loss. We examined the risk of red blood cell transfusion (as an indirect measure of blood loss) and subsequent mortality by body mass index level in patients aged 65 and over undergoing hip fracture surgery.

METHODS

This is a population-based cohort study using medical databases. We included all patients who underwent surgery for hip fracture during 2005-2013. We calculated the cumulative risk of red blood cell transfusion within 7 days of surgery treating death as a competing risk and, among transfused patients, short- (8-30 days postsurgery) and long-term mortality (31-365 days postsurgery).

RESULTS

Among 56,420 patients, 47.7 % received at least one red blood cell transfusion within 7 days of surgery. In patients with normal weight, the risk was 48.8 % compared with 57.0 % in underweight patients (adjusted RR = 1.11; CI 1.08-1.15), 42.1 % in overweight patients (adjusted RR = 0.89; CI 0.86-0.91), and 42.2 % in obese patients (adjusted RR = 0.87; CI 0.84-0.91). Among transfused patients, adjusted HRs for short-term mortality were 1.52 (CI 1.34-1.71), 0.70 (CI 0.61-0.80), and 0.58 (CI 0.43-0.77) for underweight, overweight, and obese patients, respectively, compared with normal-weight patients. The corresponding adjusted HRs for long-term mortality were 1.45 (CI 1.33-1.57), 0.80 (CI 0.74-0.86), and 0.58 (CI 0.50-0.69). Similar association between BMI and mortality was observed also among non-transfused patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Underweight patients had a higher risk of red blood cell transfusion and death in the first year of surgery than normal-weight patients, even when controlling for age and comorbidity. Opposite findings were seen for overweight and obese patients.

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.

Smoking is Associated with Increased Blood Loss and Transfusion Use After Lumbar Spinal Surgery

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the association between smoking and intraoperative blood loss and perioperative transfusion use in patients undergoing spinal surgery. However, we found that although many of the common complications and deleterious effects of smoking on surgical patients had been well documented, the aspect of blood loss seemingly had been overlooked despite data reported in nonorthopaedic sources to suggest a possible connection.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We asked: (1) Is smoking associated with increased estimated blood loss during surgery in patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery? (2) Is smoking associated with increased perioperative transfusion usage?

METHODS

Between 2005 and 2009, 581 lumbar decompression procedures (with or without fusion) were performed at one academic spine center. Of those, 559 (96%) had sufficient chart documentation to categorize patients by smoking status, necessary intra- and postoperative data to allow analysis with respect to bleeding and transfusion-related endpoints, and who did not meet exclusion criteria. Exclusion criteria included: patients whose smoking status did not fit in our two categories, patients with underlying coagulopathy, patients receiving anticoagulants (including aspirin and platelet inhibitors), history of hepatic disease, history of platelet disorder or other blood dyscrasias, and patient or family history of any other known bleeding disorder. Smoking history in packs per day was obtained for all subjects. We defined someone as a smoker if the patient reported smoking up until the day of their surgical procedure; nonsmokers were patients who quit smoking at least 6 weeks before surgery or had no history of smoking. We used a binomial grouping for whether patients did or did not receive a transfusion perioperatively. Age, sex, number of levels of discectomies, number of levels decompressed, number of levels fused, and use of instrumentation were recorded. The same approaches were used for transfusions in all patients regardless of smoking history; decisions were made in consultation between the surgeon and the anesthesia team. Absolute indications for transfusion postoperatively were: a hemoglobin less than 7 g/dL, continued symptoms of dizziness, tachycardia, decreased exertional tolerance, or hypotension that failed to respond to fluid resuscitation. Multiple linear regression analyses correcting for the above variables were performed to determine associations with intraoperative blood loss, while logistic regression was used to analyze perioperative transfusion use.

RESULTS

After controlling for potentially relevant confounding variables noted earlier, we found smokers had increased estimated blood loss compared with nonsmokers (mean, 328 mL more for each pack per day smoked; 95% CI, 249-407 mL; p < 0.001). We also found that again correcting for confounders, smokers had increased perioperative transfusion use compared with nonsmokers (odds ratio, 13.8; 95% CI, 4.59-42.52).

CONCLUSIONS

Smoking is associated with increased estimated surgical blood loss and transfusion use in patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery. Patients who smoke should be counseled regarding these risks and on smoking cessation before undergoing lumbar surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Risk factors for blood transfusion after shoulder arthroplasty

Aims

Currently, there is little information about the need for peri-operative blood transfusion in patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to identify the rate of transfusion and its predisposing factors, and to establish a blood conservation strategy.

Methods

We identified all patients who had undergone shoulder arthroplasty at our hospital between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2013. The rate of transfusion was determined from the patient’s records. While there were exceptions, patients typically underwent transfusion if they had a level of haemoglobin of < 7.5 g/dl if asymptomatic, < 9.0 g/dl if they had a significant cardiac history or symptoms of dizziness or light headedness. Multivariable regression analysis was undertaken to identify predictors of transfusion. High- and low-risk cohorts for transfusion were identified from a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

Of 1174 shoulder arthroplasties performed on 1081 patients, 53 cases (4.5%) required transfusion post-operatively. Predictors of blood transfusion were a lower pre-operative haematocrit (p < 0.001) and shoulder arthroplasty undertaken for post-traumatic arthritis (p < 0.001). ROC analysis identified pre-operative haematocrit of 39.6% as a 90% sensitivity cut-off for transfusion. In total 48 of the 436 (11%) shoulder arthroplasties with a pre-operative haematocrit < 39.6% needed transfusion compared with five of the 738 (0.70%) shoulder arthroplasties with a haematocrit above this level.

Discussion

We found that transfusion was needed less frequently than previously described for shoulder arthroplasty. Patients with a pre-operative haematocrit < 39.6% should be advised that there is an increased risk for blood transfusion, while those with a haematocrit above this level are unlikely to require transfusion. Take home message: The rate of transfusion after shoulder arthroplasty is under 5%, and those with a pre-operative haematocrit greater than or equal to 39.6% have a very low likelihood (< 1%) of requiring a transfusion. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:224–8.

Predicting Blood Loss in Total Knee and Hip Arthroplasty

Marked blood loss during lower extremity total joint arthroplasties may lead to higher rates of transfusion, which may negatively affect surgical outcomes and yield greater complication rates. It is therefore ideal to identify factors that may increase the likelihood of blood loss, so they can be modified. From this review, it can be concluded that preoperative anemia, older age, multiple comorbidities, increased operative time, and use of postoperative anticoagulation may lead to higher blood loss and transfusion rates, although the influence of other factors remains controversial.

Efficiency of tranexamic acid in perioperative blood loss in hip arthroplasty: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic drug used to reduce bleeding in mortality risk situations such as trauma. Our objective was to conduct a systematic literature review to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of TXA in reducing bleeding in hip arthroplasty.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A systematic literature review and meta-analysis of primary studies similar to controlled trials was performed. Literature was searched in MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, LILACS, SciELO and Google Scholar. The review was proposed and undertaken by 2 reviewers and the inclusion criteria were: a) patients undergoing arthroplasty for primary unilateral hip replacement; b) comparison of a treatment group with TXA to a control group that received a placebo or no treatment at all, and c) outcome measures, total blood loss, number of patients receiving allogeneic transfusion and/or incidence of thromboembolic complications. The search was restricted to studies published from 1966 to June 2013.

RESULTS

A total of 16 studies with 246 patients were retrieved for this review. The total blood loss outcome evidenced a weighted mean difference in favor of TXA vs. controls undergoing hip arthroplasty (-0.45 [P<0.001, 95% CI -0.65 to -0.24]). Weighted relative risk was estimated for the allogeneic transfusion requirement outcome, showing a trend in favor the TXA arm, with fewer patients requiring allogeneic transfusion in hip surgery (0.8 [P<0.02, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.11]); however, this trend was not statistically significant.

LIMITATIONS

There is a noticeable difference in methods for quantifying total blood loss across the studies reviewed. The need for transfusion outcomes are probably not significant taking into account the number of events in the TXA group.

CONCLUSIONS

TXA can be routinely used to reduce intra- and post-operative blood loss in primary hip arthroplasty.

Clinical experience with tranexamic acid during primary total hip arthroplasty

We examined whether a single 1-gram preoperative dose of tranexamic acid (TXA) was effective in reducing 1) allogeneic blood transfusion, 2) haemoglobin (Hb) decreases, and 3) perioperative blood loss following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) and resurfacing hip arthroplasty (RHA). One hundred and thirty-two patients (88 THA, 44 RHA; 66M, 66F; mean age = 58.2 years) who received TXA were compared with a control group matched for starting Hb, body mass index (BMI), age and gender. For the THR, transfusion rates were 4.5% and 19.3% for the TXA and control groups, respectively (p = 0.001) with no difference for the resurfacing patients. The mean overall Hb decrease was significantly lower in the TXA treatment groups for both THA and RHA patients (p<0.0001 and p = 0.01 respectively). 1 g of tranexamic acid administered preoperatively significantly reduced the mean decrease in haemoglobin as well as risk of transfusion.

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.

Blood transfusion in hip arthroplasty: a laboratory hematic curve must be the single predictor of the need for transfusion?

Objective

to determine whether the laboratory hematic curve must be the single predictor of postoperative blood transfusion in total hip arthroplasty.

Methods

the laboratory blood samples of 78 consecutive patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty was analyzed during five distinct moments: one preoperative and four postoperative. There was a count of hemoglobin, hematocrit and platelets of the patients samples. Other catalogued variables ascertain possible risk factors related to transfusional practice. They characterized the anthropometric, behavioral and co morbidities data in this population. The study subjects were divided and categorized into two groups: those who received blood transfusion during or after surgery (Group 1, G1), and those who did not accomplish blood transfusion (Group 2, G2). Transfusion rules were lead by guidelines of American Academy of Anesthesiology and the British Society of Hematology.

Results

a total of 27 (34.6%) patients received blood transfusions. The curves of hemoglobin, hematocrit and platelet transfusions between G1 and G2 were similar (p > 0.05). None of the analyzed risk factors modified the rate of transfusion rate in their analysis with p value > 0.05, except the race. The sum of clinical co morbidities associated with patients in G1 was a median of 3 (95% CI 2.29–3.40), while in G2 the median was 2 (95% CI 1.90–2.61) with p = 0.09.

Conclusion

the curve in red blood cells has limited reliability when used as sole parameter. The existence of tolerant patients hematimetric curve variations assumes that their assessments of clinical, functional evaluation and co-morbidities are parameters that should influence the decision to transfusion red blood cells.

Predictors of perioperative blood loss in total joint arthroplasty

UPDATE The print version of this article has errors that have been corrected in the online version of this article. In the Materials and Methods section, the sentence that reads as "During the study period, our institution offered preoperative autologous blood donation to all patients who were scheduling for total joint arthroplasty with a hemoglobin level of no less than 11 mg/dL or a hematocrit level of at least 33%." in the print version now reads as "During the study period, our institution offered preoperative autologous blood donation to all patients who were scheduling for total joint arthroplasty with a hemoglobin level of no less than 11 g/dL or a hematocrit level of at least 33%." in the online version. In Table III, the footnote that reads as "The values are given as the estimate and the standard error in milligrams per deciliter." in the print version now reads as "The values are given as the estimate and the standard error in grams per deciliter." in the online version.

BACKGROUND

Despite advances in surgical and anesthetic techniques, lower-extremity total joint arthroplasty is associated with considerable perioperative blood loss. As predictors of perioperative blood loss and allogenic blood transfusion have not yet been well defined, the purpose of this study was to identify clinical predictors for perioperative blood loss and allogenic blood transfusion in patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty.

METHODS

From 2000 to 2008, all patients undergoing unilateral primary total hip or knee arthroplasty who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. Perioperative blood loss was calculated with use of a previously validated formula. The predictors of perioperative blood loss and allogenic blood transfusion were identified in a multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Eleven thousand three hundred and seventy-three patients who underwent total joint arthroplasty, including 4769 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty and 6604 patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty, were evaluated. Multivariate analysis indicated that an increase in blood loss was associated with being male (263.59 mL in male patients who had undergone total hip arthroplasty and 233.60 mL in male patients who had undergone total knee arthroplasty), a Charlson Comorbidity Index of &gt;3 (293.99 mL in patients who had undergone total hip arthroplasty and 167.96 mL in patients who had undergone total knee arthroplasty), and preoperative autologous blood donation (593.51 mL in patients who had undergone total hip arthroplasty and 592.30 mL in patients who had undergone total knee arthroplasty). In patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty, regional anesthesia compared with general anesthesia reduced the amount of blood loss. The risk of allogenic blood transfusion increased with the amount of blood loss in the patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (odds ratio, 1.43 [95% confidence interval, 1.40 to 1.46]) and the patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty (odds ratio, 1.47 [95% confidence interval, 1.42 to 1.51]), but the risk of blood transfusion increased with the Charlson Comorbidity Index only in patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty (odds ratio, 3.2 [95% confidence interval, 1.99 to 5.15]). The risk of allogenic blood transfusion decreased with preoperative autologous blood donation in patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (odds ratio, 0.01 [95% confidence interval, 0.01 to 0.02]) and patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty (odds ratio, 0.02 [95% confidence interval, 0.01 to 0.03]).

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified some clinical predictors for blood loss in patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty that we believe can be used for implementing more effective blood conservation strategies.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Does single use of an autologous transfusion system in TKA reduce the need for allogenic blood?: a prospective randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Mechanical autotransfusion systems for washed shed blood (WSB) were introduced to reduce the need for postoperative allogenic blood transfusions (ABTs). Although some authors have postulated decreased requirements for ABT by using autologous retransfusion devices, other trials, mostly evaluating retransfusion devices for unwashed shed blood (USB), verified a small or no benefit in reducing the need for postoperative ABT. Because of these contradictory findings it is still unclear whether autologous retransfusion systems for WSB can reduce transfusion requirements.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We therefore asked whether one such autologous transfusion system for WSB can reduce the requirements for postoperative ABT.

METHODS

In a prospective, randomized, controlled study, we enrolled 151 patients undergoing TKA. In Group A (n=76 patients), the autotransfusion system was used for a total of 6 hours (intraoperatively and postoperatively) and the WSB was retransfused after processing. In Control Group B (n=75 patients), a regular drain without suction was used. We used signs of anemia and/or a hemoglobin value less than 8 g/dL as indications for transfusion. If necessary, we administered one or two units of allogenic blood.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients (33%) in Group A, who received an average of 283 mL (range, 160-406 mL) of salvaged blood, needed a mean of 2.1 units of allogenic blood, compared with 23 patients (33%) in Control Group B who needed a mean of 2.1 units of allogenic blood.

CONCLUSIONS

We found the use of an autotransfusion system did not reduce the rate of postoperative ABTs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

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.

The effect of preoperative recombinant erythropoietin on postoperative hematocrit level after orthognathic surgery

PURPOSE

To compare the postoperative red cell mass as indicated by the hematocrit value of orthognathic surgery patients given iron supplementation and a single preoperative dose of erythropoietin alpha (EPO) and patients who did not receive either EPO or iron supplementation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Subjects who had a Le Fort I osteotomy (LFI) or a combination of LFI and bilateral sagittal split osteotomy between 2005 and 2008 and were aged at least 13 years were included. Subjects were excluded if they had a history of maxillofacial trauma, a craniofacial syndrome, or a major systemic medical condition. Subjects either had EPO administered with iron supplements before surgery (surgeon A protocol) or received neither (surgeon B protocol). Venous blood samples were taken, in accordance with clinic protocol, before surgery (before administration of EPO) and on postoperative day 1. Multiple linear regression with backward selection was used to analyze the change in hematocrit value. Explanatory variables included group, preoperative hematocrit level, age, gender, length of surgery, blood loss, and crystalloid (fluid replacement) volume.

RESULTS

The study included 178 eligible patients: 86 (48%) had a combination of LFI and bilateral sagittal split osteotomy and 92 (52%) had an isolated LFI. Of the patients, 114 (64%) had EPO/iron supplements administered before surgery whereas 64 did not. The mean change in hematocrit level as an indicator of the change in red cell mass was statistically significantly different (P = .01) for the subjects who received preoperative administration of EPO with iron supplementation compared with those who did not receive EPO plus iron. The administration of EPO plus iron was protective: the decrease in hematocrit level after surgery was smaller for subjects in the EPO group even after we controlled for age, gender, preoperative hematocrit level, length of surgery, blood loss, and crystalloid (fluid replacement) volume.

CONCLUSIONS

A single preoperative dose of erythropoietin with iron supplementation resulted in a smaller decrease, on average, in postoperative red cell mass as indicated by hematocrit value in patients with complicated orthognathic surgery procedures.

Dabigatran etexilate and concomitant use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or acetylsalicylic acid in patients undergoing total hip and total knee arthroplasty: no increased risk of bleeding

Patients undergoing total hip or knee arthroplasty should receive anticoagulant therapy because of the high risk of venous thromboembolism. However, many are already taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) that can have antihaemostatic effects. We assessed the bleeding risk in patients treated with thromboprophylactic dabigatran etexilate, with and without concomitant NSAID or ASA. A post-hoc analysis was undertaken of the pooled data from trials comparing dabigatran etexilate (220 mg and 150 mg once daily) and enoxaparin. Major bleeding event (MBE) rates were determined and odds ratios (ORs) generated for patients who received study treatment plus NSAID (half-life ≤12 hours) or ASA (≤160 mg/day) versus study treatment alone. Relative risks were calculated for comparisons between treatments. Overall, 4,405/8,135 patients (54.1%) received concomitant NSAID and 386/8,135 (4.7%) received ASA.ORs for the comparison with/without concomitant NSAID were 1.05 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.55-2.01) for 220 mg dabigatran etexilate; 1.19 (0.55-2.55) for 150 mg; and 1.32 (0.67-2.57) for enoxaparin. ORs for the comparison with/without ASA were 1.14 (0.26-5.03); 1.64 (0.36-7.49); and 2.57 (0.83-7.94), respectively. For both NSAIDs and ASA there was no significant difference in bleeding between patients with and without concomitant therapy in any treatment arm. Patients concomitantly taking NSAIDs or ASA have a similar risk of MBE to those taking dabigatran etexilate alone. No significant differences in MBE were detected between dabigatran etexilate and enoxaparin within co-medication subgroups, suggesting that no increased major bleeding risk exists when dabigatran etexilate is administered with NSAID or ASA.

Thromboprophylaxis in patients older than 75 years or with moderate renal impairment undergoing knee or hip replacement surgery [corrected]

PURPOSE

Prospective, double-blind studies in orthopaedic patients have been conducted using the direct thrombin inhibitor dabigatran etexilate (hereafter referred to as dabigatran), with two doses investigated and approved for adults (220 mg and 150 mg once daily) to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE). The European Medicines Agency decided that in major joint orthopaedic surgery, the lower dose should be used in elderly patients (aged over 75 years) and those with reduced renal function (creatinine clearance between 30 and 50 ml/min). Our objective was to understand the efficacy and bleeding data for the lower dose in this subpopulation.

METHODS

We extracted and analysed data from the elderly or from moderately renally impaired patients (n 632 of = 5,539) from the orthopaedic clinical development programme of dabigatran.

RESULTS

Dabigatran 150 mg once daily was as effective as the standard European enoxaparin regimen, with numerically fewer major bleeding events. Rates of major VTE were 4.3% vs 6.4% of patients, respectively. Major bleeding events occurred in four (1.3%) vs 11 (3.3%), which shows a trend towards lower bleeding with dabigatran 150 mg [odds ratio (OR) 0.40; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.13-1.25; p = 0.110]. Mean volume of blood loss was 395 vs 417 ml, and transfused units were 2.4 vs 2.5, respectively. Other safety parameters, including the incidence of wound infections and complications, were similar for 150 mg once daily dabigatran and enoxaparin.

CONCLUSION

For patients at higher risk of bleeding, dabigatran 150 mg once daily is as effective as enoxaparin following major orthopaedic surgery and is associated with a favourable bleeding rate.

Maximum surgical blood ordering schedules for revision lower limb arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Effective utilisation of blood products is fundamental. The introduction of maximum surgical blood ordering schedules (MSBOS) for operations has been shown to improve transfusion services. A retrospective analysis was undertaken to establish an evidence-based MSBOS for revision total hip replacement (THR) and total knee revision (TKR). The impact of this schedule on blood conservation was analysed.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was undertaken on 397 patients who underwent revision THR and TKR over a 4-year period. The cross-match-to-transfusion ratio (CTR) and transfusion index (TI) were calculated. A MSBOS protocol was created based on the TIs and its' impact on transfusion services was assessed prospectively on 125 patients by comparing CTRs.

RESULTS

In revision THR, TI was 1.19 for elective cases, 1.55 for emergency cases and 2.35 for infected cases. There was no difference in TI for revisions of cemented and uncemented components. Single component THR revision required less transfusion. In revision TKR, TI was 0.31 for elective cases, 2.0 for emergency cases and 1.23 for cases with infection. The introduction of the MSBOS protocol had resulted in a considerable improvement in blood ordering. Reductions in the CTR were seen for all types of revision surgery, but most evident in elective revision THR (3.24-2.18) and elective revision TKR (7.95-1.2).

CONCLUSIONS

Analysis confirmed that excessive cross-matching occurred for revision lower limb arthroplasty. The introduction of our MSBOS protocol promoted blood conservation and compliance with established national guidelines.

Risk for perioperative myocardial infarction and mortality in patients undergoing hip or knee arthroplasty: the role of anemia

BACKGROUND

Anemia is common in patients undergoing surgery. This study was designed to determine whether preoperative anemia represents an independent risk factor for 30-day mortality and nonfatal myocardial infarction (death/MI) in patients undergoing major orthopedic arthroplasty surgery.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Between January 1987 and December 2006 at the Mayo Clinic, 391 orthopedic patients experienced death/MI within 30 days of the index surgery. For each patient included in the event cohort (case), one control patient (1:1 ratio) was identified matched according to sex, age, type of joint operation (hip vs. knee vs. bilateral knee), primary operation versus revision, emergent versus elective, and date of surgery. Association of preoperative hemoglobin (Hb) with death/MI was assessed by multiple linear regression including preoperative Hb and all other characteristics and comorbid conditions found to have some evidence (p<0.10) of univariate association with death/MI.

RESULTS

After adjusting for other perioperative risk factors, anemia (Hb<12.0 g/dL for females and<13.0 g/dL for males) was not a significant independent risk factor for death/MI (odds ratio [OR], 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.54-1.20; p=0.286), nor was Hb when treated as a continuous variable (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.81-1.19 per 1.0 g/dL decrease below 13.0 g/dL; p=0.868). Cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, or pulmonary disease and history of recent malignancy were found to be the most important risk factors for death/MI.

CONCLUSION

Existing comorbidities, rather than preoperative anemia, were independently associated with major morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing major orthopedic arthroplasty.

The effect of surgeon volume on the need for transfusion following primary unilateral hip and knee arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

we reviewed transfusion practice following primary hip and knee arthroplasty with emphasis on the relationship between surgeon volume and the need for transfusion.

MATERIALS/METHODS

review of a consecutive series of 508 primary, elective, unilateral arthroplasties (248 THR/260 TKR) performed over a 12-month period. Data were analysed to determine the overall rate of transfusion and the details of any such transfusion. Secondarily, multivariate regression was performed to determine the effects of surgeon volume and other recorded variables upon the need for transfusion. For the purpose of analysis we classified surgeons doing more than 52 arthroplasties a year as "high volume" and surgeons performing less than this number as "low volume".

RESULTS

transfusion rates were 10% and 7% following THR and TKR. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that surgeon volume (<52 operations/yr vs. >52 operations/yr) and preoperative Hb<12g/dl were the only significant determinants of a need for postoperative transfusion (p<0.01). High volume and low volume surgeons transfused 5% vs. 17%, respectively (RR=3.3 (95%CI 1.5-9.1) p=0.003) following THR and 4% vs. 13% (RR=3.6 (95%CI 1.4-9.3) p=0.006) following TKR.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

High volume surgeons have significantly lower transfusion rates when compared to nationally accepted figures.

Implications of revision total elbow arthroplasty on blood transfusion

HYPOTHESIS

We hypothesize that there is a greater rate of blood transfusions following revision total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) as compared with primary TEA, with lower preoperative hemoglobins and longer operative times being significant risk factors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The results of 193 operations (172 patients) between January 2000 and December 2004 were retrospectively reviewed. Excluded were patients with primary impairment of platelet or coagulation function or with chronic liver impairment. Univariate and chi(2) analyses were used to determine which risk factors were predictive of transfusion.

RESULTS

The transfusion rate was 7.8% for revision arthroplasties and 1.0% after primary procedures (P < .02). Revision surgery (P < .02), longer operative times (P < .01), longer anesthesia times (P < .01), lower preoperative hemoglobin level (10.6+/-0.5 g/dL; P < .01), and lower body mass index (P=.04) significantly increased the risk of blood transfusion.

DISCUSSION

The need for blood transfusion after revision elbow arthroplasty is statistically greater than that after primary procedures. Furthermore, revision surgery, increased operative and anesthesia times, lower preoperative hemoglobin level, and decreased body mass index increase the risk of requiring a transfusion. Patients undergoing revision surgeries with preoperative hemoglobin levels of less than 10 g/dL are especially at risk of transfusion, and the proper precautions should be enacted during the perioperative period.

One surgeon's experience with the 2-incision technique for total hip arthroplasty

This study's purpose was to analyze the complications that occurred during and after one surgeon's first 200 two-incision total hip arthroplasties. Complications included 4 intraoperative femur fractures, 4 postoperative femur fractures, 2 nondisplaced greater trochanter fractures greater than 2 cm, 14 asymptomatic greater trochanter fractures 2 cm or less, 1 malpositioned cup requiring revision, 1 loose stem, 7 cases of heterotopic ossification of grade 2 or higher, 4 dislocations, 1 superficial infection, 80 lateral femoral cutaneous nerve neuropraxias (78 resolved within 6 weeks), and 4 femoral nerve neuropraxias (3 resolved within 12 weeks). This study shows that the 2-incision technique can be performed with a low risk of major complications, and patients can expect reduced tissue trauma and faster rehabilitation. When carefully sought out, minor complications were not uncommon after 2-incision total hip arthroplasty.

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.

Allogeneic blood transfusion and prognosis following total hip replacement: a population-based follow up study

Background

Allogeneic red blood cell transfusion is frequently used in total hip replacement surgery (THR). However, data on the prognosis of transfused patients are sparse. In this study we compared the risk of complications following THR in transfused and non-transfused patients.

Methods

A population-based follow-up study was performed using data from medical databases in Denmark. We identified 28,087 primary THR procedures performed from 1999 to 2007, from which we computed a propensity score for red blood cell transfusion based on detailed data on patient-, procedure-, and hospital-related characteristics. We were able to match 2,254 transfused with 2,254 non-transfused THR patients using the propensity score.

Results

Of the 28,087 THR patients, 9,063 (32.3%) received at least one red blood cell transfusion within 8 days of surgery. Transfused patients had higher 90-day mortality compared with matched non-transfused patients: the adjusted OR was 2.2 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2-3.8). Blood transfusion was also associated with increased odds of pneumonia (OR 2.1; CI: 1.2-3.8), whereas the associations with cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events (OR 1.4; CI: 0.9-2.2) and venous thromboembolism (OR 1.2; CI: 0.7-2.1) did not reach statistical significance. The adjusted OR of reoperation due to infection was 0.6 (CI: 0.1-2.9).

Conclusions

Red blood cell transfusion was associated with an adverse prognosis following primary THR, in particular with increased odds of death and pneumonia. Although the odds estimates may partly reflect unmeasured bias due to blood loss, they indicate the need for careful assessment of the risk versus benefit of transfusion even in relation to routine THR procedures.

Transfusion after shoulder arthroplasty: an analysis of rates and risk factors

HYPOTHESIS

Advancing age, lower preoperative hemoglobin levels, and more complex procedures are risk factors in transfusion requirements following shoulder arthroplasty.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 196 consecutive shoulder arthroplasties performed by a single surgeon (including 113 primary noncomplex total shoulder arthroplasties, 27 primary noncomplex hemiarthroplasties, 37 revision or complex arthroplasties, and 19 reverse shoulder arthroplasties). Logistic regression analysis was used to determine which clinical variables were associated with the need for postoperative transfusion.

RESULTS

The overall transfusion rate was 43% (84/196). The presence of preoperative anemia (males <13 g/dl, females <12 g/dl), decreasing preoperative hemoglobin levels, female gender, increasing age, and implantation of a reverse shoulder arthroplasty were independent risk factors for postoperative transfusion. Operative time, estimated blood loss, anesthesia type, preoperative use of anticoagulants and body mass index (BMI) were not found to be predictive of transfusion.

DISCUSSION

Our results corroborate the few existing studies regarding the effects of lower preoperative hemoglobin levels on transfusion risk following shoulder arthroplasty. In contrast to these studies, however, we found increasing age and the implantation of a reverse shoulder arthroplasty to be independent predictors for transfusion.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study support close postoperative monitoring of older, female patients (>65 years), patients with preoperative anemia (males <13 g/dl, females <12 g/dl), and those undergoing reverse shoulder replacement. These patients should be educated before surgery of the potential need for postoperative blood transfusion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 4; Retrospective case series, no control group.

Pre-operative injections of epoetin-alpha versus post-operative retransfusion of autologous shed blood in total hip and knee replacement: a prospective randomised clinical trial

This prospective randomised clinical trial evaluated the effect of alternatives for allogeneic blood transfusions after total hip replacement and total knee replacement in patients with pre-operative haemoglobin levels between 10.0 g/dl and 13.0 g/dl. A total of 100 patients were randomly allocated to the Eprex (pre-operative injections of epoetin) or Bellovac groups (post-operative retransfusion of shed blood). Allogeneic blood transfusions were administered according to hospital policy. In the Eprex group, 4% of the patients (two patients) received at least one allogeneic blood transfusion. In the Bellovac group, where a mean 216 ml (0 to 700) shed blood was retransfused, 28% (14 patients) required the allogeneic transfusion (p = 0.002). When comparing Eprex with Bellovac in total hip replacement, the percentages were 7% (two of 30 patients) and 30% (nine of 30 patients) (p = 0.047) respectively, whereas in total knee replacement, the percentages were 0% (0 of 20 patients) and 25% (five of 20 patients) respectively (p = 0.042). Pre-operative epoetin injections are more effective but more costly in reducing the need for allogeneic blood transfusions in mildly anaemic patients than post-operative retransfusion of autologous blood.

Blood management: a primer for clinicians

Blood transfusions are common in the hospital setting. Despite the large commitment of resources to the delivery of blood components, many clinicians have only a vague understanding of the complexities associated with blood management and transfusion therapy. The purpose of this primer is to broaden the awareness of health care practitioners in terms of the risks versus benefits of blood transfusions, their economics, and alternative treatments. By developing and implementing comprehensive blood management programs, hospitals can promote safe and clinically effective blood utilization practices. The cornerstones of blood management programs are the implementation of evidence-based transfusion guidelines to reduce variability in transfusion practice, and the employment of multidisciplinary teams to study, implement, and monitor local blood management strategies. Pharmacists can play a key role in blood management programs by providing technical expertise as well as oversight and monitoring of pharmaceutical agents used to reduce the need for allogeneic blood.

Post-operative blood salvage with autologous retransfusion in primary total hip replacement

Clinical, haematological or economic benefits of post-operative blood salvage with autologous blood re-transfusion have yet to be clearly demonstrated for primary total hip replacement. We performed a prospective randomised study to analyse differences in postoperative haemoglobin levels and homologous blood requirements in two groups of patients undergoing primary total hip replacement. A series of 158 patients was studied. In one group two vacuum drains were used and in the other the ABTrans autologous retransfusion system. A total of 58 patients (76%) in the re-transfusion group received autologous blood. There was no significant difference in the mean post-operative haemoglobin levels in the two groups. There were, however, significantly fewer patients with post-operative haemoglobin values less than 9.0 g/dl and significantly fewer patients who required transfusion of homologous blood in the re-transfusion group. There was also a small overall cost saving in this group.

Retransfusion of filtered shed blood in primary total hip and knee arthroplasty: a prospective randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Allogeneic blood transfusions are associated with a number of well-recognized risks and complications. Postoperative retransfusion of filtered shed blood is an alternative to (reduce) allogeneic blood transfusion. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the clinical efficacy of retransfusion of filtered shed blood and to evaluate the complications, in particular febrile reactions.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In this clinical trial 160 patients undergoing primary total hip or knee replacement were randomly assigned to receive either a retransfusion system (Bellovac, AstraTech AB) or a regular drain (Abdovac, AstraTech AB). Patients with a preoperative hemoglobin (Hb) level of between 13.0 and 14.6 g per dL were included. The shed blood was returned 6 hours after operation. After surgery the anesthesiologist determined the transfusion trigger. When Hb level dropped below this trigger, an allogeneic blood transfusion was given. The following data were obtained: number of allogeneic blood transfusions, total volume of blood collected in the bag used for retransfusion, perioperative Hb levels, febrile reaction, and other complications.

RESULTS

In the control group 19 percent of the patients received at least one allogeneic blood transfusion. In the study group this percentage was 6 percent of the patients (p = 0.015). Comparing total knee and total hip arthroplasty (control vs. study) the percentages were, respectively, 16 percent versus 2 percent (p = 0.040) and 21 percent versus 11 percent (NS). On average 308 mL of filtered shed blood was retransfused in the study group. In the study group 18 percent of patients had febrile reactions compared to 20 percent in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative retransfusion of filtered shed blood is effective for decreasing allogeneic blood transfusions after total hip and knee arthroplasty. There was no relationship between retransfusions and postoperative febrile reactions.

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.

Albumin induced hypercoagulability does not reduce blood loss in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Albumin may enhance and hydroxyethyl starch (HES) may impair haemostasis. While the effects are also dependent on haemodilution we minimized it by early structured transfusion therapy, and compared albumin and HES regarding blood loss and coagulation parameters in hip arthroplasty patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

101 patients undergoing primary hip arthroplasty received in random order 4% albumin (n = 48) or HES (average Mw 120 kDa/molar substitution ratio 0.7, n = 53). The administration of colloid, red blood cell (RBC), fresh frozen plasma and platetet concentrates begun after a 6-8%, 12-16%, 60% and 100% blood loss of the patient's calculated blood volume respectively. Explanatory risk factors for blood loss were modelled by regression analysis.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Administration of albumin or HES 1200 ml (500-2000 and 500-1800) [median (range) respectively] did not affect blood loss. The vWF antigen was higher in the albumin group (p = 0.04) postoperatively. Haematocrit value, platelet count, bleeding time, prothrombin time value, activated thromboplastin time, FV activity and fibrinogen concentration were comparable between the groups. Long operation time was associated with great blood loss (p < 0.001). In hip arthroplasty patients with near normal levels of haematocrit albumin enhanced coagulation without altering blood loss.