STS/SCA/AmSECT/SABM Update to the Clinical Practice Guidelines on Patient Blood Management

Postoperative haemoglobin and anaemia-associated ischaemic events after major noncardiac surgery: A sex-stratified cohort study

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To determine the sex-specific associations between postoperative haemoglobin and mortality or complications reflecting ischaemia or inadequate oxygen supply after major noncardiac surgery.

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study with prospective validation.

SETTING

A large university hospital health system in China.

PATIENTS

Men and women undergoing elective major noncardiac surgery.

INTERVENTIONS AND MEASUREMENTS

The primary exposure was nadir haemoglobin within 48 h after surgery. The outcome of interest was a composite of postoperative mortality or ischaemic events including myocardial injury, acute kidney injury and stroke within hospitalisation.

MAIN RESULTS

The study included 26,049 patients (15,757 men and 10,292 women). Low postoperative haemoglobin was a strong predictor of the composite outcome in both sexes, with the risk progressively increasing as the nadir haemoglobin concentration dropped below 130 g l-1 in men and 120 g l-1 in women (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.43, 95% CI 1.37-1.50 in men, and OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.35-1.55 in women, per 10 g l-1 decrease in postoperative nadir haemoglobin). Above these sex-specific thresholds, the change of nadir haemoglobin was no longer associated with odds of the composite outcome in either men or women. There was no significant interaction between patient sex and the association between postoperative haemoglobin and the composite outcome (Pinteraction = 0.673). Validation in an external prospective cohort (n = 2120) with systematic postoperative troponin and creatinine measurement confirmed our findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative haemoglobin levels following major noncardiac surgery were nonlinearly associated with ischaemic complications or mortality, without any clinically important interaction with patient sex.

Hematocrit drift and outcomes in surgical patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

There is a paucity of conclusive evidence regarding the impact of downward drift in hematocrit levels among patients who have undergone surgical clipping for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). This study endeavors to explore the potential association between hematocrit drift and mortality in this specific patient population.

METHODS

A cohort study was conducted, encompassing adult patients diagnosed with aSAH at a university hospital. The primary endpoint was follow-up mortality. Propensity score matching was employed to align patients based on their baseline characteristics. Discrimination capacity across various models was assessed and compared using net reclassification improvement (NRI).

RESULTS

Among the 671 patients with aSAH in the study period, 118 patients (17.6%) experienced an in-hospital hematocrit drift of more than 25%. Following adjustment with multivariate regression analysis, patients with elevated hematocrit drift demonstrated significantly increased odds of mortality (aOR: 2.12, 95% CI: 1.14 to 3.97; P = 0.019). Matching analysis yielded similar results (aOR: 2.07, 95% CI: 1.05 to 4.10; P = 0.036). The inclusion of hematocrit drift significantly improved the NRI (P < 0.0001) for mortality prediction. When in-hospital hematocrit drift was served as a continuous variable, each 10% increase in hematocrit drift corresponded to an adjusted odds ratio of 1.31 (95% CI 1.08-1.61; P = 0.008) for mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the findings from this comprehensive cohort study indicate that a downward hematocrit drift exceeding 25% independently predicts mortality in surgical patients with aSAH. These findings underscore the significance of monitoring hematocrit and managing anemia in this patient population.

Clinical guideline on reversal of direct oral anticoagulants in patients with life threatening bleeding

BACKGROUND

Anticoagulation is essential for the treatment and prevention of thromboembolic events. Current guidelines recommend direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) over vitamin K antagonists in DOAC-eligible patients. The major complication of anticoagulation is serious or life-threatening haemorrhage, which may necessitate prompt haemostatic intervention. Reversal of DOACs may also be required for patients in need of urgent invasive procedures. This guideline from the European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC) aims to provide evidence-based recommendations and suggestions on how to manage patients on DOACs undergoing urgent or emergency procedures including the treatment of DOAC-induced bleeding.

DESIGN

A systematic literature search was performed, examining four drug comparators (dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban) and clinical scenarios ranging from planned to emergency surgery with the outcomes of mortality, haematoma growth and thromboembolic complications. The GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) methodology was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. Consensus on the wording of the recommendations was achieved by a Delphi process.

RESULTS

So far, no results from prospective randomised trials comparing two active comparators (e.g. a direct reversal agent and an unspecific haemostatic agent such as prothrombin complex concentrate: PCC) have been published yet and the majority of publications were uncontrolled and observational studies. Thus, the certainty of evidence was assessed to be either low or very low (GRADE C). Thirty-five recommendations and clinical practice statements were developed. During the Delphi process, strong consensus (>90% agreement) was achieved in 97.1% of recommendations and consensus (75 to 90% agreement) in 2.9%.

DISCUSSION

DOAC-specific coagulation monitoring may help in patients at risk for elevated DOAC levels, whereas global coagulation tests are not recommended to exclude clinically relevant DOAC levels. In urgent clinical situations, haemostatic treatment using either the direct reversal or nonspecific haemostatic agents should be started without waiting for DOAC level monitoring. DOAC levels above 50 ng ml-1 may be considered clinically relevant necessitating haemostatic treatment before urgent or emergency procedures. Before cardiac surgery under activated factor Xa (FXa) inhibitors, the use of andexanet alfa is not recommended because of inhibition of unfractionated heparin, which is needed for extracorporeal circulation. In the situation of DOAC overdose without bleeding, no haemostatic intervention is suggested, instead measures to eliminate the DOACs should be taken. Due to the lack of published results from comparative prospective, randomised studies, the superiority of reversal treatment strategy vs. a nonspecific haemostatic treatment is unclear for most urgent and emergency procedures and bleeding. Due to the paucity of clinical data, no recommendations for the use of recombinant activated factor VII as a nonspecific haemostatic agent can be given.

CONCLUSION

In the clinical scenarios of DOAC intake before urgent procedures and DOAC-induced bleeding, practitioners should evaluate the risk of bleeding of the procedure and the severity of the DOAC-induced bleeding before initiating treatment. Optimal reversal strategy remains to be determined in future trials for most clinical settings.

Role of Radiology in Assessment of Postoperative Complications of Heart Transplantation

Heart transplantation is a pivotal treatment of end-stage heart failure, and recent advancements have extended median posttransplant life expectancy. However, despite the progress in surgical techniques and medical treatment, heart transplant patients still face complications such as rejection, infections, and drug toxicity. CT is a reliable tool for detecting most of these complications, whereas MR imaging is particularly adept at identifying pericardial pathologies and signs of rejection. Awareness of these nuances by radiologists, cardiologists, and surgeons is desired to optimize care, reduce morbidities, and enhance survival.

Effect of geography on the use of ultrafiltration during cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass

BACKGROUND

Ultrafiltration (UF) is a common practice during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) where it is used as a blood management strategy to reduce red blood cell (RBC) transfusion, minimize adverse effects of hemodilution, and reduce proinflammatory mediators. However, its clinical utilization has been shown to vary throughout the continents.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this investigation was to assess the distribution of UF use across the United States.

DATA COLLECTION

Data on UF use during cardiac surgery was obtained from a national (United States) perfusion database for adult cardiac procedures performed from January 2016 through December 2018.

STUDY SAMPLE

Four geographical regions were established: Northeast (NE), South (SO), Midwest (MW) and West (WE). The primary endpoint was the use of UF with secondary endpoints UF volume, CPB and anesthesia asanguineous volumes, intraoperative allogeneic RBC transfusion, nadir hematocrit and urine output (UO). 92,859 adult cardiac cases from 191 hospitals were reviewed.

RESULTS

The NE and the WE had similar usages of UF (59.9% and 59.7% respectively), which were higher than the MW and the SO (38.6% and 34.9%, p < .001). When UF was utilized, the median [IQR] volume removed was highest in the NE (1900 [1200-2800]mL), and similar in all other regions (WE 1500 [850-2400 mL, MW 1500 [900-2300]mL and SO 1500 [950-2200]mL, p < .001. Median total UO was lowest in the NE 400 [210,650]mL vs all other regions (p < .001), and remained so when indexed by patient weight and operative time (NE-0.8 [0.5, 1.3]mL/kg/hour, MW-1.1 [0.7, 1.8] mL/kg/hour, SO-1.3 [0.8, 2.0]mL/kg/hour, WE-1.1 [0.7, 1.3]mL/kg/hour, p < .001. Intraoperative RBC transfusion rate was highest in the SO (21.3%) and WE (20.5%), while similar rates seen in the NE (16.2%) and MW (17.6%), p < .001.

CONCLUSIONS

Across the United States there is geographic variation on the use of UF. Further research is warranted to investigate why these practice variations exist and to better understand and determine their reasons for use.

Perioperative Care in Cardiac Surgery: A Joint Consensus Statement by the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Cardiac Society, ERAS International Society, and The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS)

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) programs have been shown to lessen surgical insult, promote recovery, and improve postoperative clinical outcomes across a number of specialty operations. A core tenet of ERAS involves the provision of protocolized evidence-based perioperative interventions. Given both the growing enthusiasm for applying ERAS principles to cardiac surgery and the broad scope of relevant interventions, an international, multidisciplinary expert panel was assembled to derive a list of potential program elements, review the literature, and provide a statement regarding clinical practice for each topic area. This article summarizes those consensus statements and their accompanying evidence. These results provide the foundation for best practice for the management of the adult patient undergoing cardiac surgery.

Preoperative Anemia and Postoperative Outcomes in Cardiac Surgery: A Mediation Analysis Evaluating Intraoperative Transfusion Exposures

BACKGROUND

Preoperative anemia is associated with adverse outcomes in cardiac surgery, yet it remains unclear what proportion of this association is mediated through red blood cell (RBC) transfusions.

METHODS

This is a historical observational cohort study of adults undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting or valve surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass at an academic medical center between May 1, 2008, and May 1, 2018. A mediation analysis framework was used to evaluate the associations between preoperative anemia and postoperative outcomes, including a primary outcome of acute kidney injury (AKI). Intraoperative RBC transfusions were evaluated as mediators of preoperative anemia and outcome relationships. The estimated total effect, average direct effect of preoperative anemia, and percent of the total effect mediated through transfusions are presented with 95% confidence intervals and P -values.

RESULTS

A total of 4117 patients were included, including 1234 (30%) with preoperative anemia. Overall, 437 of 4117 (11%) patients went on to develop AKI, with a greater proportion of patients having preoperative anemia (219 of 1234 [18%] vs 218 of 2883 [8%]). In multivariable analyses, the presence of preoperative anemia was associated with increased postoperative AKI (6.4% [4.2%-8.7%] absolute difference in percent with AKI, P < .001), with incremental decreases in preoperative hemoglobin concentrations displaying greater AKI risk (eg, 11.9% [6.9%-17.5%] absolute increase in probability of AKI for preoperative hemoglobin of 9 g/dL compared to a reference of 14 g/dL, P < .001). The association between preoperative anemia and postoperative AKI was primarily due to direct effects of preoperative anemia (5.9% [3.6%-8.3%] absolute difference, P < .001) rather than mediated through intraoperative RBC transfusions (7.5% [-4.3% to 21.1%] of the total effect mediated by transfusions, P = .220). Preoperative anemia was also associated with longer hospital durations (1.07 [1.05-1.10] ratio of geometric mean length of stay, P < .001). Of this total effect, 38% (22%, 62%; P < .001) was estimated to be mediated through subsequent intraoperative RBC transfusion. Preoperative anemia was not associated with reoperation or vascular complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative anemia was associated with higher odds of AKI and longer hospitalizations in cardiac surgery. The attributable effects of anemia and transfusion on postoperative complications are likely to differ across outcomes. Future studies are necessary to further evaluate mechanisms of anemia-associated postoperative organ injury and treatment strategies.

Consensus of the Brazilian association of hematology, hemotherapy and cellular therapy on patient blood management: Preoperative Clinical and Laboratory Assessment of the Patient

The preoperative clinical and laboratory evaluations of the patient is an essential step to ensure the safety and success of any surgical procedure. This assessment aims to identify any underlying medical conditions and risk factors and determine suitability for surgery. With this step, the medical team can adapt the care plan to meet each patient's specific needs, increasing the chances of a successful procedure. Good clinical assessment and comprehensive laboratory testing, when integrated into a Patient Blood Management approach, are invaluable in promoting safety of care, reducing transfusion risks, improving surgical outcomes, and optimizing resource utilization. This approach not only elevates the quality of care, but is also aligned with evidence-based practice and patient-centered principles, making it an essential component of the perioperative process.

Consensus of the Brazilian association of hematology, hemotherapy and cellular therapy on patient blood management: Preoperative Phase - Preoperative management of the patient's anemia

Managing anemia before surgery is extremely important as it is a clinical condition that can significantly increase surgical risk and affect patient outcomes. Anemia is characterized by a reduction in the number of red blood cells or hemoglobin levels leading to a lower oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Proper treatment requires a multifaceted approach to ensure patients are in the best possible condition for surgery and to minimize potential complications. The challenge is recognizing anemia early and implementing a timely intervention to correct it. Anemic patients are more susceptible to surgical complications such as increased infection rates, slower wound healing and increased risk of cardiovascular events during and after surgery. Additionally, anemia can exacerbate existing medical conditions, causing greater strain on organs and organ systems. To correct anemia and optimize patient outcomes, several essential measures must be taken with the most common being identifying and correcting iron deficiency.

Managing suspected myasthenia gravis and myositis induced by pembrolizumab in a Jehovah's Witness sarcoma patient

INTRODUCTION

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) can cause a spectrum of adverse events known as immune-related adverse events (irAEs) that resemble autoimmune responses. Immune-mediated myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare and serious neurologic adverse event that has been associated with ICIs requiring prompt treatment. In the Jehovah's Witness population, typical management of these adverse events may not be options, and alternative treatment choices would be needed.

CASE REPORT

73-year-old Jehovah's Witness patient with high-grade undifferentiated pleiomorphic sarcoma who developed immune-mediated MG approximately 4 weeks after initiation of pembrolizumab. On the day of admission, the patient presented with a three-day history of worsening ptosis, right greater than left. He was later found to be seronegative for MG.

MANAGEMENT AND OUTCOME

The patient required therapy with pyridostigmine, steroids, and agreed to plasma exchange (PLEX) prior to discharge. He achieved near resolution of his neurologic symptoms, and pembrolizumab was discontinued. He later underwent radical resection of the left thigh soft tissue sarcoma and superficial inguinal lymph node dissection. He is now on active surveillance.

DISCUSSION

While neurologic adverse events typically present 6 weeks after initiation of ICIs, MG has been reported occurring as early as 4 weeks after initiation. This rare and serious adverse event requires prompt treatment, and clinicians need to be aware of the alternative treatment options in this unique patient population. Early conversations regarding blood products and factions must be had to develop a treatment plan in accordance with the patient's personal decisions.

Effect of blood conservation protocol on the utilisation of blood and outcome of patients undergoing open heart surgery

INTRODUCTION

Cardiac surgery is fraught with increased consumption of blood and blood products. Various strategies for blood conservation have been described. Our aim was to study the impact of a structured blood conservation protocol (BCP) on the utilization of blood and patient outcome.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data comparing adult patients undergoing open heart surgery with BCP with those undergoing surgery without BCP. The primary objective was to compare the amount of blood utilized and the hematocrit at discharge. The secondary objective was to compare the parameters of patient outcomes. The level of significance was set at 0.05.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients requiring transfusion (19.1% [9/47] vs 58.9% [33/56]; p < 0.001) and the quantity of blood transfused (12 units vs 45 units; p 0.003) in the BCP group was significantly lower. Interestingly, the hematocrit level at discharge was comparable between the groups (30.9 (4.8) versus 31.8 (2.4), p-0.671). The average cost incurred for transfusing blood in the BCP group was ₹ 370.2 as compared to ₹1165.1 in the other (p < 0.001). BCP reduced the odds of overall blood transfusion by 79.8% (OR 0.202 (0.084-0.485); p < 0.001) and intraoperative blood transfusion by 95.3% (OR 0.047 (0.010-0.213); p < 0.001). The morbidity and mortality were comparable between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Implementing a structured blood conservation protocol in patients undergoing open heart surgery significantly reduces the need for blood transfusion. It also has a promising impact on patient recovery after surgery and significant positive cost implications.

Methodologic Quality and Pharmacotherapy Recommendations for Patient Blood Management Guidelines for Cardiac Surgery on Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Patient blood management (PBM) guidelines for patients undergoing cardiac surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) have increased during the past decade, and pharmacotherapy plays an important role in PBM. In the face of the undefined consistency in the methodologic quality and pharmacotherapy recommendations across multiple guidelines, this study exclusively evaluated methodologies of the related guideline development process, and compiled medication recommendations of PBM for cardiac surgery patients. PBM guidelines for cardiac surgery under CPB were searched through some mainstream literature and guideline databases from database establishment to May 15, 2023. Nine guidelines meeting inclusion criteria were included in this study. The quality of the guidelines was evaluated using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) tool. "Stakeholder involvement" received the lowest mean score of 49.38% in the AGREE II scoring among the guidelines. PBM for cardiac surgery patients spans the perioperative phase. Drug therapy strategies of PBM for cardiac surgery patients involve anemia therapy, perioperative administration of antithrombotic drugs, intraoperative anticoagulation, and the use of hemostatic drugs. Unlike for adults, there is less evidence about the management of antithrombotic drugs and hemostatic drugs for pediatric cardiac surgery patients. Recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) and desmopressin (DDAVP) are not recommended after pediatric cardiac surgery, whereas prothrombin complex concentrate could be considered in clinical trials. As for the controversies regarding the administration of rFVIIa and DDAVP after adult cardiac surgery by different societies, clinicians should exercise their clinical judgment based on individual patient features.

The Relationship Between Transfusion in Cardiac Surgery Patients and Adverse Outcomes

OBJECTIVES

To understand if red blood cell (RBC) transfusions are independently associated with a risk of mortality, prolonged intubation, or infectious, cardiac, or renal morbid outcomes.

DESIGN

A retrospective review.

SETTING

A single-institution university hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 2,458 patients undergoing coronary bypass artery graft and/or valvular surgery from July 2014 through January 2018.

INTERVENTIONS

No interventions were done.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The primary outcome was the occurrence of an adverse event or prolonged intubation. Infectious, cardiac, and renal composite outcomes were also defined. These composites, along with mortality, were analyzed individually and then combined to form the "any adverse events" composite. Preoperative demographic and intraoperative parameters were analyzed as univariate risk factors for adverse outcomes. Logistic regression was used to screen variables, with a p value criterion of p < 0.05 for entry into the model selection procedure. A backward selection algorithm was used with variable entry and retention criteria of p < 0.05 to select the final multivariate model. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine whether there was an association between the volume of RBC transfusion and the defined adverse event after adjusting for covariates. A p value < 0.01 was considered statistically significant in the final model of each aim to adjust for multiple comparisons. The final logistic models for each of the following outcomes indicate an increased risk of that outcome per each additional unit of RBC transfused. For prolonged intubation, the odds ratio (OR) was 1.493 (p < 0.0001), OR = 1.358 (p < 0.0001) for infectious composite outcomes, OR = 1.247 (p < 0.0001) for adverse renal outcomes, and OR = 1.467 (p < 0.0001) for any adverse event.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors demonstrated a strong independent association between RBC transfusion volume and adverse outcomes after cardiac surgery. Efforts should be undertaken, such as preoperative anemia management and control of coagulopathy, in order to minimize the need for RBC transfusion.

A Comprehensive Patient Blood Management Program During Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Patients Over 60 Years of Age

Purpose

There is currently no consensus on the most appropriate blood transfusion strategy for older adults undergoing cardiovascular surgery. We aimed to investigate the potential benefits of the patient blood management (PBM) program specifically for advanced age patients, and to evaluate the relationship of age and PBM in cardiovascular surgery.

Patients and Methods

We collected data from patients over 60 years old who underwent on-pump cardiovascular surgery. We compared transfusion and clinical outcomes between the pre-PBM and post-PBM groups using a propensity score matching method. Then, we conducted a subgroup analysis within the original cohort, specifically focusing on patients aged of 75 and above with multivariable adjusted models.

Results

Data of 9703 older adults were analyzed. Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion rates during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) (31.6% vs 13.1%, P<0.001), during the operation (50.8% vs 39.0%, P<0.001) and after the operation (5.6% vs 3.1%, P<0.001) were significantly reduced, and mortality and the risk of some adverse events were also reduced after the PBM. Subgroup analysis showed that there was no interaction between age and PBM, and advanced age (over age 75) did not modify the effect of PBM program in reducing RBC transfusion (Pinteraction=0.245), on mortality (Pinteration=0.829) and on certain complications.

Conclusion

The comprehensive PBM program could reduce RBC transfusion without adverse outcomes in older patients undergoing CPB. Even patients over age 75 may benefit from a more stringent transfusion indication. Comprehensive blood conservation measures should be applied to optimize the blood management for older patients.

Maximizing longevity: erythropoietin's impact on sickle cell anaemia survival rates

Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) stands as a hereditary blood disorder characterized by mutated haemoglobin, causing red blood cells to adopt a sickle shape, leading to complications like vaso-occlusive crises, anaemia, and organ damage. Despite advancements in treatment, managing SCA remains challenging, with limited options to increase life expectancy and improve quality of life for affected individuals. This paper reviews the potential impact of erythropoietin (EPO) therapy in enhancing life expectancy and ameliorating complications in individuals with SCA. EPO, primarily recognized for its role in stimulating red blood cell production, holds promise in mitigating anaemia, reducing transfusion dependence, and possibly diminishing the frequency and severity of vaso-occlusive crises in SCA patients. Moreover, by stimulating red blood cell production, EPO therapy might alleviate the vaso-occlusive process, thus reducing the frequency of painful crises and associated complications. Additionally, considering the potential side effects and the need for continuous monitoring, the use of EPO in SCA treatment requires cautious consideration. The potential of EPO therapy in SCA offers a glimpse into novel strategies aimed at improving the quality of life and extending the life expectancy of affected individuals. In conclusion, while the application of EPO in SCA treatment holds promise, additional research is indispensable to comprehend its precise role, optimize dosing strategies, and ensure safety, thereby paving the way for enhanced life expectancy and improved outcomes for individuals living with SCA.

Perioperative Plasma in Addition to Red Blood Cell Transfusions Are Associated With Increased Venous Thromboembolism Risk Postoperatively

BACKGROUND

Perioperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusions increase venous thromboembolic (VTE) events. Although a previous study found that plasma resuscitation after trauma was associated with increased VTE, the risk associated with additional perioperative plasma is unknown.

METHODS

A US claims and EHR database (TriNetX Diamond Network) was queried. We compared surgical patients who received perioperative plasma and RBC to patients who received perioperative RBC but not plasma. Subanalyses included (1) all surgeries (n = 48,580) and (2) cardiovascular surgeries (n = 38,918). Propensity score matching was performed for age at surgery, ethnicity, race, sex, overweight and obesity, type 2 diabetes, disorders of lipoprotein metabolism, essential hypertension, neoplasms, nicotine dependence, coagulopathies, sepsis, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory analgesics, platelet aggregation inhibitors, anticoagulants, hemoglobin level, outpatient service utilization, and inpatient services; surgery type was included for "all surgeries" analyses. Outcomes included 30-day mortality, postoperative VTE, pulmonary embolism (PE), and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

RESULTS

After matching the surgical cohorts, compared to only RBC, plasma + RBC was associated with higher risk of postoperative mortality (4.52% vs 3.32%, risk ratio [RR]: 1.36 [95% confidence interval, 1.24-1.49]), VTE (3.92% vs 2.70%, RR: 1.36 [1.24-1.49]), PE (1.94% vs 1.33%, RR: 1.46 [1.26-1.68]), and DIC (0.96% vs 0.35%, RR: 2.75 [2.15-3.53]). Among perioperative cardiovascular patients, adding plasma to RBC transfusion was associated with similar increased risk.

CONCLUSIONS

When compared with perioperative RBC transfusion, adding plasma was associated with increased 30-day postoperative mortality, VTE, PE, and DIC risk among surgical and cardiovascular surgical patients. Reducing unnecessary plasma transfusion should be a focus of patient blood management to improve overall value in health care.

What drives variability in postoperative cardiac surgery transfusion rates?

OBJECTIVE

Wide interhospital variation exists in cardiac surgical postoperative transfusion rates. We aimed to compare transfusion rates at 2 hospitals and identify the institutional practice factors, unrelated to patient or operative characteristics, associated with postoperative transfusion rates.

METHODS

Records for adult patients undergoing routine cardiac surgery at 2 hospitals (H and L) from February 2020 to August 2022 were analyzed. Patient and operative characteristics, preoperative and intensive care unit hemoglobin values, and postoperative transfusion rates were compared. Transfusion indication was recorded prospectively. Propensity matching was completed to assess comparability of patient populations.

RESULTS

After propensity matching patients at H and L on age, procedure type, predicted morbidity or mortality, crossclamp time, preoperative hypertension, preoperative heart failure, and preoperative stroke, 2111 patients remained, with similar characteristics except hypertension. Matched results showed no significant differences in mortality, reoperation, or other major outcomes. Hospital H transfused 36% of patients (mean postoperative hemoglobin [Hb] 10.5) with 1483 units of packed red blood cells whereas hospital L transfused 12% of patients (mean postoperative Hb 9.4) with 198 units of packed red blood cells (P < .001). For all patients with a Hb >7.5, hospital H versus L transfused 27% versus 0.9% (P < .001). Hospital L's sole transfusion indication for pretransfusion hemoglobin trigger >7.5 was bleeding versus hospital H, which had multiple indications. When Hb concentration alone was the indication for transfusion, the threshold at hospital H was <7.5 g/dL versus <6 g/dL at hospital L.

CONCLUSIONS

Variation in transfusion rates between hospitals H and L resulted from strict adherence at hospital L to a transfusion trigger of <6 g/dL with narrow indications for transfusions above that Hb concentration.

Large Language Models and Healthcare Alliance: Potential and Challenges of Two Representative Use Cases

Large language models (LLMS) emerge as the most promising Natural Language Processing approach for clinical practice acceleration (i.e., diagnosis, prevention and treatment procedures). Similarly, intelligent conversational systems that leverage LLMS have disruptively become the future of therapy in the era of ChatGPT. Accordingly, this research addresses the application of LLMS in healthcare, paying particular attention to two relevant use cases: cognitive decline and depression, more specifically, postpartum depression. In the end, the most promising opportunities they represent (e.g., clinical tasks augmentation, personalized healthcare, etc.) and related concerns (e.g., data privacy and quality, fairness, etc.) are discussed to contribute to the global debate on their integration in the sanitary system.

Effect of acute normovolemic hemodilution in patients undergoing cardiac surgery with remimazolam anesthesia

PURPOSE

The reduced effects of allogeneic transfusion with acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) have been reported. Harvesting a large volume of blood may maximize the effect in patients with low body weight, and the prevention of hypotension is important. Remimazolam is an anesthetic with few circulatory responses. Our aim was to evaluate whether high-volume ANH reduces the need for transfusion in cardiac patients under remimazolam anesthesia.

METHODS

In this retrospective single-center study, we enrolled cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) patients who received remimazolam anesthesia. Changes in hemodynamic parameters were assessed. The numbers of blood transfusions and chest tube outputs were also evaluated.

RESULTS

In a total of 51 patients, ANH was performed in 27 patients with a mean body mass index of 23.2 (ANH volume: 740 ± 222 mL). No significant differences were observed in mean blood pressure during blood collection. The intraoperative amount of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion was significantly lower in the ANH group than in the control group (431 ± 678 and 1260 ± 572 mL, p < 0.001). The avoidance rates of RBC were 66.7 and 4.2%, respectively. The multivariate analysis result revealed that ANH correlated with RBC, with an odds ratio of 0.067 (95% confidence interval 0.005-0.84, p < 0.05). The postoperative bleeding at 24 h was significantly lower in the ANH group (455 ± 228 and 797 ± 535 mL, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

In patients undergoing CPB, ANH reduced intraoperative transfusion amount and postoperative bleeding. Hemodynamic changes during blood collection were minimal under remimazolam anesthesia and high-volume ANH was feasible.

User Perceptions of Visual Clot in a High-Fidelity Simulation Study: Mixed Qualitative-Quantitative Study

BACKGROUND

Viscoelastic hemostatic assays, such as rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) or thromboelastography, enable prompt diagnosis and accelerate targeted treatment. However, the complex interpretation of the results remains challenging. Visual Clot-a situation awareness-based visualization technology-was developed to assist clinicians in interpreting viscoelastic tests.

OBJECTIVE

Following a previous high-fidelity simulation study, we analyzed users' perceptions of the technology, to identify its strengths and limitations from clinicians' perspectives.

METHODS

This is a mixed qualitative-quantitative study consisting of interviews and a survey. After solving coagulation scenarios using Visual Clot in high-fidelity simulations, we interviewed anesthesia personnel about the perceived advantages and disadvantages of the new tool. We used a template approach to identify dominant themes in interview responses. From these themes, we defined 5 statements, which were then rated on Likert scales in a questionnaire.

RESULTS

We interviewed 77 participants and 23 completed the survey. We identified 9 frequently mentioned topics by analyzing the interview responses. The most common themes were "positive design features," "intuitive and easy to learn," and "lack of a quantitative component." In the survey, 21 respondents agreed that Visual Clot is easy to learn and 16 respondents stated that a combination of Visual Clot and ROTEM would help them manage complex hemostatic situations.

CONCLUSIONS

A group of anesthesia care providers found Visual Clot well-designed, intuitive, and easy to learn. Participants highlighted its usefulness in emergencies, especially for clinicians inexperienced in coagulation management. However, the lack of quantitative information is an area for improvement.

Fresh frozen plasma transfusion after cardiac surgery

INTRODUCTION

Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) transfusion in the intensive care unit (ICU) is commonly used to treat coagulopathy and bleeding in cardiac surgery, despite suggestion that it may increase the risk of morbidity and mortality through mechanisms such as fluid overload and infection.

METHODS

We retrospectively studied consecutive adults undergoing cardiac surgery from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III and IV databases. We applied propensity score matching to investigate the independent association of within-ICU FFP transfusion with mortality and other key clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Of our 12,043 adults who met inclusion criteria, 1585 (13.2%) received perioperative FFP with a median of 2.48 units per recipient (interquartile range [IQR]: 2.04, 4.33) at a median time of 1.83 h (IQR: 0.75, 3.75) after ICU admission. After propensity matching of 952 FFP recipients to 952 controls, we found no significant association between FFP use and hospital mortality (odds ratio (OR): 1.58; 99% confidence interval (CI): 0.57, 3.71), suspected infection (OR: 0.72; 99% CI: 0.49, 1.08), or acute kidney injury (OR: 1.23; 99% CI: 0.91, 1.67). However, FFP was associated with increased days in hospital (adjusted mean difference (AMD): 1.28; 99% CI: 0.27, 2.41; p = .0050), days in intensive care (AMD: 1.28; 99% CI: 0.27, 2.28; p = .0011), and chest tube output in millilitres up to 8 h after transfusion (AMD: 92.98; 99% CI: 52.22, 133.74; p < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

After propensity matching, FFP transfusion was not associated with increased hospital mortality, but was associated with increased length of stay and no decrease in bleeding in the early post-transfusion period.

A Case of Andexanet Alfa Induced Heparin Resistance in Emergent Aortic Surgery: Successful Anticoagulation Management Using Antithrombin Administration

Andexanet alfa (AnAl) is utilized for the urgent reversal of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in cases of severe bleeding. While the guidelines from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons recommend AnAl for urgent cardiac surgery in patients treated with DOACs, concerns persist regarding the potential of AnAl to induce heparin resistance. This report details the case of an 85-year-old woman diagnosed with acute type A aortic dissection, who received AnAl due to prior edoxaban use. During the emergent aortic surgery, she exhibited heparin resistance following the administration of unfractionated heparin (UFH). The administration of antithrombin III (ATIII) significantly influenced activated clotting times, facilitating successful surgery while maintaining adequate anticoagulation. This case underscores the importance of cautious management of AnAl-induced heparin resistance during critical surgeries, emphasizing the role of ATIII supplementation for effective anticoagulation.

Red Blood Cell Transfusion in the Intensive Care Unit

Importance

Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is common among patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Despite multiple randomized clinical trials of hemoglobin (Hb) thresholds for transfusion, little is known about how these thresholds are incorporated into current practice.

Objective

To evaluate and describe ICU RBC transfusion practices worldwide.

Design, Setting, and Participants

International, prospective, cohort study that involved 3643 adult patients from 233 ICUs in 30 countries on 6 continents from March 2019 to October 2022 with data collection in prespecified weeks.

Exposure

ICU stay.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the occurrence of RBC transfusion during ICU stay. Additional outcomes included the indication(s) for RBC transfusion (consisting of clinical reasons and physiological triggers), the stated Hb threshold and actual measured Hb values before and after an RBC transfusion, and the number of units transfused.

Results

Among 3908 potentially eligible patients, 3643 were included across 233 ICUs (median of 11 patients per ICU [IQR, 5-20]) in 30 countries on 6 continents. Among the participants, the mean (SD) age was 61 (16) years, 62% were male (2267/3643), and the median Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score was 3.2 (IQR, 1.5-6.0). A total of 894 patients (25%) received 1 or more RBC transfusions during their ICU stay, with a median total of 2 units per patient (IQR, 1-4). The proportion of patients who received a transfusion ranged from 0% to 100% across centers, from 0% to 80% across countries, and from 19% to 45% across continents. Among the patients who received a transfusion, a total of 1727 RBC transfusions were administered, wherein the most common clinical indications were low Hb value (n = 1412 [81.8%]; mean [SD] lowest Hb before transfusion, 7.4 [1.2] g/dL), active bleeding (n = 479; 27.7%), and hemodynamic instability (n = 406 [23.5%]). Among the events with a stated physiological trigger, the most frequently stated triggers were hypotension (n = 728 [42.2%]), tachycardia (n = 474 [27.4%]), and increased lactate levels (n = 308 [17.8%]). The median lowest Hb level on days with an RBC transfusion ranged from 5.2 g/dL to 13.1 g/dL across centers, from 5.3 g/dL to 9.1 g/dL across countries, and from 7.2 g/dL to 8.7 g/dL across continents. Approximately 84% of ICUs administered transfusions to patients at a median Hb level greater than 7 g/dL.

Conclusions and Relevance

RBC transfusion was common in patients admitted to ICUs worldwide between 2019 and 2022, with high variability across centers in transfusion practices.

Red Blood Cell Transfusion: 2023 AABB International Guidelines

Importance

Red blood cell transfusion is a common medical intervention with benefits and harms.

Objective

To provide recommendations for use of red blood cell transfusion in adults and children.

Evidence Review

Standards for trustworthy guidelines were followed, including using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation methods, managing conflicts of interest, and making values and preferences explicit. Evidence from systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials was reviewed.

Findings

For adults, 45 randomized controlled trials with 20 599 participants compared restrictive hemoglobin-based transfusion thresholds, typically 7 to 8 g/dL, with liberal transfusion thresholds of 9 to 10 g/dL. For pediatric patients, 7 randomized controlled trials with 2730 participants compared a variety of restrictive and liberal transfusion thresholds. For most patient populations, results provided moderate quality evidence that restrictive transfusion thresholds did not adversely affect patient-important outcomes. Recommendation 1: for hospitalized adult patients who are hemodynamically stable, the international panel recommends a restrictive transfusion strategy considering transfusion when the hemoglobin concentration is less than 7 g/dL (strong recommendation, moderate certainty evidence). In accordance with the restrictive strategy threshold used in most trials, clinicians may choose a threshold of 7.5 g/dL for patients undergoing cardiac surgery and 8 g/dL for those undergoing orthopedic surgery or those with preexisting cardiovascular disease. Recommendation 2: for hospitalized adult patients with hematologic and oncologic disorders, the panel suggests a restrictive transfusion strategy considering transfusion when the hemoglobin concentration is less than 7 g/dL (conditional recommendations, low certainty evidence). Recommendation 3: for critically ill children and those at risk of critical illness who are hemodynamically stable and without a hemoglobinopathy, cyanotic cardiac condition, or severe hypoxemia, the international panel recommends a restrictive transfusion strategy considering transfusion when the hemoglobin concentration is less than 7 g/dL (strong recommendation, moderate certainty evidence). Recommendation 4: for hemodynamically stable children with congenital heart disease, the international panel suggests a transfusion threshold that is based on the cardiac abnormality and stage of surgical repair: 7 g/dL (biventricular repair), 9 g/dL (single-ventricle palliation), or 7 to 9 g/dL (uncorrected congenital heart disease) (conditional recommendation, low certainty evidence).

Conclusions and Relevance

It is good practice to consider overall clinical context and alternative therapies to transfusion when making transfusion decisions about an individual patient.

Blood Management for the Orthopaedic Surgical Patient

Prevention and management of anemia and blood loss in the orthopaedic patient undergoing surgery is a major concern for healthcare providers and patients. Although transfusion technology can be lifesaving, there are risks to blood products that have led to increased awareness of blood management and development of hospital patient blood management programs. Use of patient blood management can be effective in addressing preoperative anemia, a major modifiable risk factor in patients undergoing surgery. In this informational article, evidence-based practice guidelines for perioperative blood management are addressed. A case scenario is introduced focusing on a patient whose religious preference is Jehovah's Witness having "no blood wishes" undergoing elective orthopaedic surgery. Orthopaedic nurses can facilitate optimal patient blood management through multidisciplinary collaboration.

Multicenter evaluation of the Quantra with the QStat Cartridge in adult patients undergoing liver transplantation

Blood loss and transfusion of blood products are key concerns during liver transplantation. Whole-blood viscoelastic testing devices have been used to monitor hemostatic function and guide the transfusion of blood products in this patient population. The Quantra System with the QStat Cartridge is a new point-of-care, closed-system viscoelastic testing device that measures changes in clot stiffness during coagulation and fibrinolysis using ultrasound detection of resonance. The aim of this multicenter prospective observational study was to evaluate the Quantra System against the ROTEM delta device in monitoring coagulation and fibrinolysis in patients undergoing liver transplantation. One hundred twenty-five (125) adult subjects (above 18 y old) were enrolled across 5 medical centers in the US. Blood samples were collected at a minimum of 3-time points: preincision (baseline), during the anhepatic phase, and after the start of reperfusion. Performance was assessed as the correlation of equivalent measurements from the QStat Cartridge and ROTEM delta INTEM, EXTEM, and FIBTEM assays. In addition, a clinical concordance analysis was performed to assess the agreement between the 2 devices related to the detection of fibrinolysis. The correlation between the 2 viscoelastic testing devices was strong, with r -values ranging between 0.88 and 0.95, and the overall agreement with respect to detecting fibrinolysis was 90.3% (CI, 86.9%-93.2%). The results indicate that the Quantra with the QStat Cartridge provides comparable information as the ROTEM delta in the assessment of hemostatic function during a liver transplant. Quantra's simplicity of use and availability of rapid results may provide clinicians with a faster, more convenient means to assess coagulation and fibrinolysis status in the operating room and critical care setting.

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

BACKGROUND

Placenta accrete spectrum (PAS) is a significant risk factor for postpartum hemorrhage and effective blood product management is critical in ensuring patient safety. In PAS patients undergoing cesarean section (CS) blood transfusion management guided by the combined clinical experience of the anesthesiologist and surgeon with point-of-care coagulation testing appears safe and effective. We describe and evaluate our experience and identify potential areas for improvement with blood product management in this patient population.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of peri-operative demographic, anesthetic, and obstetric data was conducted for all patients with PAS undergoing CS between 2012 and 2018 at our center. To facilitate a practical evaluation of blood product management, we divided patients into two groups based on the severity of bleeding.

RESULTS

A total of 221 parturients with PAS underwent CS, with 133 in group 1 requiring excessive amounts of transfusion and 88 in group 2 requiring management similar to other uncomplicated CS cases. There were no deaths or instances of disseminated intravascular coagulation, and intensive care unit admission occurred in five cases (2.2%). Patients in group 1 had higher mean nadir values of intra-operative hemoglobin and platelet count. We observed a high rate of missing data for peri-operative measurement of lactate and fibrinogen, PAS grade documentation, and temperature monitoring.

CONCLUSION

Given no significant morbidity or mortality, clinical judgment in experienced centers appears safe for the management of PAS patients undergoing CS. The adoption of an institutional protocol and point-of-care coagulation testing could decrease over-transfusion and associated complications.

A model based on electronic health records to predict transfusion events in on-pump cardiac surgery

Perioperative blood transfusion is costly and raises safety concerns. We developed and validated a model for predicting minor, moderate, or major transfusion given to patients during on-pump cardiac procedures based on two centers' database. Model performance incorporating 7 variables on the development set had an AUC of 0.803 [95% CI, 0.790-0.815] for minor transfusion; moderate transfusion, giving an AUC of 0.822 (95% CI, 0.803-0.841); and major transfusion, giving an AUC of 0.813 (95% CI, 0.759-0.866). Model performance on the validation set had an AUC of 0.739 (95% CI 0.714-0.765), 0.730 (95% CI 0.702-0.758), and 0.713 (95% CI 0.677-0.749), respectively. A model based entirely on readily available electronic health records can accurately predict intraoperative minor, moderate, or major transfusion and provide individualized transfusion risk profiles before surgery among those on-pump cardiac surgical patients, and may help guide patient management.

ERAS Cardiac Society turnkey order set for patient blood management: Proceedings from the AATS ERAS Conclave 2023

OBJECTIVES

There are multiple published guidelines on comprehensive patient blood management (PBM), centered on the 3 pillars of PBM: managing preoperative anemia, minimizing blood loss, and tolerating intraoperative/postoperative anemia. We sought to create an order set to facilitate widespread implementation of evidence-based PBM for cardiac surgery patients.

METHODS

Subject matter experts were consulted to translate existing guidelines and literature into a sample turnkey order set (TKO) for PBM. Orders derived from consistent class I, class IIA, or equivalent recommendations across referenced guidelines and consensus manuscripts appear in the TKO in bold type. Selected orders that were inconsistently class I or IIA, class IIB, or supported by published evidence are presented in italic type.

RESULTS

Preoperatively, there are strong recommendations to screen and treat preoperative anemia with iron replacement and erythropoietin and to discontinue dual antiplatelet therapy if the patient can safely wait for surgery. Intraoperative orders outline the routine use of an antifibrinolytic agent, cell saver, point of care viscoelastic testing, and use of a standard transfusion algorithm. The order set also reflects strong recommendations intraoperatively and postoperatively for agreed-upon hemoglobin thresholds to consider transfusion of packed red blood cells. A hemoglobin threshold should be adopted according to local team consensus and should trigger a discussion regarding transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

The benefit of a multidisciplinary PBM care pathway in cardiac surgery has been well established, yet implementation remains variable. Using recommendations from existing guidelines, we have created a TKO to facilitate the implementation of PBM.

2021 MiECTiS focused update on the 2016 position paper for the use of minimal invasive extracorporeal circulation in cardiac surgery

The landmark 2016 Minimal Invasive Extracorporeal Technologies International Society (MiECTiS) position paper promoted the creation of a common language between cardiac surgeons, anesthesiologists and perfusionists which led to the development of a stable framework that paved the way for the advancement of minimal invasive perfusion and related technologies. The current expert consensus document offers an update in areas for which new evidence has emerged. In the light of published literature, modular minimal invasive extracorporeal circulation (MiECC) has been established as a safe and effective perfusion technique that increases biocompatibility and ultimately ensures perfusion safety in all adult cardiac surgical procedures, including re-operations, aortic arch and emergency surgery. Moreover, it was recognized that incorporation of MiECC strategies advances minimal invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) by combining reduced surgical trauma with minimal physiologic derangements. Minimal Invasive Extracorporeal Technologies International Society considers MiECC as a physiologically-based multidisciplinary strategy for performing cardiac surgery that is associated with significant evidence-based clinical benefit that has accrued over the years. Widespread adoption of this technology is thus strongly advocated to obtain additional healthcare benefit while advancing patient care.

Dose-dependent influence of red blood cell transfusion volume on adverse outcomes in cardiac surgery

INTRODUCTION

Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is associated with adverse outcomes, but there are few studies on the RBC volume. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between intraoperative RBC volume and postoperative adverse outcomes for on-pump cardiac surgery.

METHODS

Adult patients undergoing on-pump cardiac surgery from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2018 were included. Those transfused with more than 6 units of RBC were excluded. The clinical characteristics of four groups with various RBC volume were compared. We analyzed the relationship between RBC volume and adverse outcomes through multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

12,143 patients were analyzed, of which 3353 (27.6%) were transfused with 1-6U RBC intraoperatively. The incidence of death, overall morbidity, acute kidney injury and prolonged mechanical ventilation were increased stepwise along with incremental RBC volume. After adjusting for possible confounders, patients transfused with 1-2U were associated with a 1.42-fold risk of death (99% CI, 1.21-2.34, p = 0.01) compared with patients without RBC, patients with 3-4U were associated with a 1.57-fold risk (99% CI, 1.32-2.80, p = 0.005) and patients with 5-6U had a 2.26-fold risk of death (99% CI, 1.65-3.88, p < 0.001). Similarly, the incidence of overall morbidity, acute kidney injury and prolonged mechanical ventilation increased several folds as the RBC numbers increased.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a significant dose-dependent influence of incremental intraoperative RBC volume on increased risk of adverse outcomes for on-pump cardiac surgery patients. Patient blood management practice should aim to reduce not only transfusion rate but also the volume of blood use.

Red Blood Cell Conservation and Use in the Cardiovascular Operating Rooms at Ben Taub General Hospital

OBJECTIVES

A conservative hemoglobin transfusion threshold is noninferior to a liberal threshold in cardiac surgery. However, red blood cell (RBC) transfusion remains common during cardiac surgery. The authors' single-center, retrospective study aimed to decrease RBC transfusions for hemoglobin >7.5 g/dL in nonemergent cardiovascular surgeries utilizing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), by educating the anesthesiology and surgical staff on the benefits of a conservative threshold for transfusions, and incorporating the discussion and routine use of blood conservation methods for all nonemergent cardiac surgeries.

DESIGN

This was a single-center, retrospective study that included all nonemergent coronary artery bypass grafting and single-valve cases utilizing CPB from January 2018 to December 2021 before and after the intervention in July 2019.

SETTING

The data involved a single community hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 417 patients were included in the study.

INTERVENTIONS

The authors adopted a conservative threshold for blood transfusion and implemented a collaborative multidisciplinary approach to blood conservation.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Baseline patient characteristics were summarized, and the incidence of RBC transfusion before and after the intervention on July 26, 2019, were compared by Wilcoxon rank sum and chi-square tests. Multivariate logistic regression was used. The intervention was significantly associated with reduced RBC transfusion rate after adjusting for confounding variables (p < 0.05). The odds of receiving an RBC transfusion among patients after the intervention was 0.615 times the odds among patients before intervention (95% CI: 0.3913-0.9663).

CONCLUSIONS

The authors' goal was to improve patient outcomes and the quality of perioperative care during cardiac surgery. By implementing a protocol and educating anesthesiologists, surgeons, and perfusionists, they successfully decreased the incidence of RBC transfusion above a hemoglobin of 7.5 g/dL.

Enhanced recovery after surgery: a narrative review on patient blood management recommendations

This review aims to analyze and document the presence of patient blood management (PBM) recommendations in enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) guidelines. The aim of ERAS programs is to improve outcomes and optimize patient recovery by reducing the stress response to surgery. PBM programs pursue the objective of improving outcomes by boosting and conserving the patient's own blood. From the early development of ERAS, there was little attention paid to the three pillars of perioperative blood management. Preoperative anemia is an important risk factor in perioperative outcomes and should be diagnosed and treated. Bleeding and unnecessary transfusions should be avoided. We analyzed clinical guidelines for scheduled surgery in adults published by the ERAS Society between 2018 and 2022. The guidelines selected were searched for recommendations related to the three pillars of PBM. We selected 15 ERAS guidelines in programmed surgery in adults. Until 2018, none of the ERAS guidelines analyzed included any recommendations related to pillars I and III of PBM. In 2019, recommendations related to the three pillars of PBM were introduced in the ERAS clinical guidelines for colorectal surgery, gynecology/oncology surgery, and lung resection surgery. However, many ERAS guidelines for surgeries with a high risk of bleeding, such as cardiac surgery, contain no clear recommendations on the management of preoperative anemia. This review shows that the ERAS guidelines published to date make very few recommendations related to PBM. The authors emphasize the need to include the most efficient PBM recommendations in ERAS clinical guidelines, given improved outcomes with a good perioperative management of blood transfusion.

Intraoperative ticagrelor removal via hemoadsorption during on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting

Objectives

Patients on ticagrelor undergoing urgent cardiac surgery are at high risk for perioperative bleeding complications. We sought to determine whether intraoperative hemoadsorption could remove ticagrelor and lower circulating drug concentrations.

Methods

The hemoadsorption device was incorporated in the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuit and remained active for the duration of the pump run. Blood samples were collected before and after CPB. The main objective of the current analysis was to compare mean total plasma ticagrelor levels (ng/mL) at baseline with ticagrelor levels obtained at the end of CPB. Plasma ticagrelor levels were measured at a certified outside laboratory (LabConnect). Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation.

Results

A total of 11 patients undergoing urgent coronary artery bypass grafting at 3 institutions were included (mean age, 67.9 ± 9.9 years; 91% male; mean European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II of 3.0 ± 3.3%; range, 0.7%-12.4%). Mean intraoperative hemoadsorption duration was 97.1 ± 43.4 minutes with a mean flow rate through the device of 422.9 ± 40.3 mL/min. Mean ticagrelor levels pre-CPB were 103.5 ± 63.8 ng/mL compared with mean post-CPB levels of 34.0 ± 17.5 ng/mL, representing a significant 67.1% reduction (P < .001). Intraoperative integration of the device was simple and safe without any device-related adverse events reported.

Conclusions

This is the first in vivo report demonstrating that intraoperative hemoadsorption can efficiently remove ticagrelor and significantly reduce circulating drug levels. Whether active ticagrelor removal can reduce serious perioperative bleeding in patients undergoing urgent cardiac surgery is currently being evaluated in the double-blinded, randomized Safe and Timely Antithrombotic Removal-Ticagrelor (STAR-T) trial.

Methemoglobin as a marker of acute anemic stress in cardiac surgery

Biological evidence supports plasma methemoglobin as a biomarker for anemia-induced tissue hypoxia. In this translational planned substudy of the multinational randomized controlled transfusion thresholds in cardiac surgery (TRICS-III) trial, which included adults undergoing cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass with a moderate-to-high risk of death, we investigated the relationship between perioperative hemoglobin concentration (Hb) and methemoglobin; and evaluated its association with postoperative outcomes. The primary endpoint was a composite of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and severe acute kidney injury at 28 days. We observe weak non-linear associations between decreasing Hb and increasing methemoglobin, which were strongest in magnitude at the post-surgical time point. Increased levels of post-surgical methemoglobin were associated with a trend toward an elevated risk for stroke and exploratory neurological outcomes. Our generalizable study demonstrates post-surgical methemoglobin may be a marker of anemia-induced organ injury/dysfunction, and may have utility for guiding personalized approaches to anemia management. Clinicaltrials.gov registration NCT02042898.

A transfusion risk stratification score to facilitate quality management in cardiopulmonary bypass

BACKGROUND

Our previous showed that a blood management program in the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) department, reduced red blood cell (RBC) transfusion and complications, but assessing transfusion practice solely based on transfusion rates was insufficient. This study aimed to design a risk stratification score to predict perioperative RBC transfusion to guide targeted measures for on-pump cardiac surgery patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed data from 42,435 adult cardiac patients. Eight predictors were entered into the final model including age, sex, anemia, New York Heart Association classification, body surface area, cardiac surgery history, emergency surgery, and surgery type. We then simplified the score to an integer-based system. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test, and a calibration curve were used for its performance test. The score was compared to existing scores.

RESULTS

The final score included eight predictors. The AUC for the model was 0.77 (95% CI, 0.76-0.77) and 0.77 (95% CI, 0.76-0.78) in the training and test set, respectively. The calibration curves showed a good fit. The risk score was finally grouped into low-risk (score of 0-13 points), medium-risk (14-19 points), and high-risk (more than 19 points). The score had better predictive power compared to the other two existing risk scores.

DISCUSSION

We developed an effective risk stratification score with eight variables to predict perioperative RBC transfusion for on-pump cardiac surgery. It assists perfusionists in proactively preparing blood conservation measures for high-risk patients before surgery.

Sensitivity and Specificity of Diagnostic Algorithms of Preoperative Anemia

OBJECTIVES

Preoperative management of anemia is one of the pillars of patient blood management. Diagnostic algorithms developed to support an anemia diagnosis have not yet been validated. The aim of this study was to validate and compare three commonly used diagnostic algorithms for preoperative anemia.

METHODS

We performed a prospective diagnostic study to detect the types of anemia present and compare the specificity and sensitivity of three diagnostic algorithms for preoperative anemia in patients scheduled to undergo major abdominal surgery. We used Cohen κ to compare the interrater reliability (agreement) of the diagnostic anemia algorithms with its standard reference.

RESULTS

Of the 10 tested types of anemia, six had a prevalence of >10% in the studied patients, namely iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, anemia of chronic disease, renal anemia, thyroid-related anemia, and anemia of bleeding. The Network for the Advancement of Transfusion Alternatives algorithm had substantial agreement with the standard reference for renal anemia but performed less appropriately for the other types of anemia. The Society for the Advancement of Blood Management algorithm displayed moderate agreement with the standard reference for deficiency of iron and B12 and for renal anemia and had substantial agreement detecting anemia of bleeding, whereas the other types of anemia were detected less appropriately. The Institute for Blood Management, Gotha, Germany algorithm had a moderate agreement with the standard reference for anemia of bleeding and near perfect agreement for all other types of anemia.

CONCLUSIONS

We were able to show that the diagnostic anemia algorithm of the Institute for Blood Management, Gotha, Germany is superior to those of the Network for the Advancement of Transfusion Alternatives and the Society for the Advancement of Blood Management in its ability to detect the six common types of preoperative anemia in patients scheduled to undergo abdominal surgery, the presence of multiple types of anemias in a given patient, and its ability to detect rare anemias that have a clinical implication for management.

Association of Postoperative Drift in Hemoglobin With Mortality After Brain Tumor Craniotomy

BACKGROUND

Postoperative downward drift in hemoglobin (Hb) concentration may be associated with complications and death, even if nadir Hb remains more than the red blood cell transfusion threshold of 7 g/dL.

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether postoperative Hb drift in patients undergoing brain tumor craniotomy influences mortality in the immediate perioperative period.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included patients undergoing craniotomy for brain tumors. We defined no postoperative Hb decrease, mild decrease, moderate decrease, and severe decrease as postoperative Hb drift of ≤25%, 26% to 50%, 51% to 75%, and >75%, respectively. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality after craniotomy.

RESULTS

This study included 8159 patients who underwent a craniotomy for brain tumors. Compared with patients with no postoperative Hb drift, the odds of postoperative mortality at 30 days increased in patients with mild postoperative Hb drift (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 2.47, 95% CI 1.72-3.56), moderate drift (adjusted OR 6.56, 95% CI 3.42-12.59), and severe drift (adjusted OR 12.33, 95% CI 3.48-43.62). When postoperative Hb drift was analyzed as a continuous variable, for each 10% increase in Hb drift, the adjusted OR of postoperative mortality at 30 days was 1.46 (95% CI 1.31-1.63).

CONCLUSION

In patients undergoing brain tumor craniotomy, a small postoperative Hb drift was associated with increased odds of postoperative mortality at 30 days, even if the nadir Hb level remained greater than the red blood cell transfusion threshold of 7 g/dL. Future randomized clinical trials of perioperative transfusion practices may examine the effect of both nadir Hb and Hb drift.

Less (Transfusion) Is More-Enhancing Recovery through Implementation of Patient Blood Management in Cardiac Surgery: A Retrospective, Single-Centre Study of 1174 Patients

Introduction: The implementation of Patient Blood Management (PBM) in cardiac surgery has been shown to be effective in reducing blood transfusions and associated complications, as well as improving patient outcomes. Despite the potential benefits of PBM in cardiac surgery, there are several barriers to its successful implementation. Objectives: The main objectives of this study were to ascertain the impact of the national Romanian PBM recommendations on allogeneic blood product transfusion in cardiac surgery and identify predictors of perioperative packed red blood cell transfusion. Methods: As part of the Romanian national pilot programme of PBM, we performed a single-centre, retrospective study in a tertiary centre of cardiovascular surgery, including patients from two time periods, before and after the implementation of the national recommendations. Using coarsened exact matching, from a total of 1174 patients, 157 patients from the before group were matched to 169 patients in the after group. Finally, we built a multivariate regression model from the entire cohort to analyse independent predictors of PRBC transfusion in the perioperative period. Results: Although there was a trend towards a lower proportion of patients requiring PRBC transfusion in the "after" group compared to the "before" group (44.9%vs. 50.3%), it was not statistically significant. There was a significant difference between the "after" group and the "before" group in terms of fresh-frozen plasma (FFP) transfusion rates, with a lower percentage of patients requiring FFP transfusion in the "after" group compared to "before" (14.2%, vs. 22.9%, p = 0.04). This difference was also seen in the total perioperative FFP transfusion (mean transfusion 0.7 units in the "before" group, SD 1.73 vs. 0.38 units in the "after" group, SD 1.05, p = 0.04). In the multivariate regression analysis, age > 64 years (OR 1.652, 95% CI 1.17-2.331, p = 0.004), female sex (OR 2.404, 95% CI 1.655-3.492, p < 0.001), surgery time (OR 1.295, 95% CI 1.126-1.488, p < 0.001), Hb < 13 g/dl (OR 3.611, 95% CI 2.528-5.158, p < 0.001), re-exploration for bleeding (OR 3.988, 95% CI 1.248-12.738, p = 0.020), viscoelastic test use (OR 2.18, 95% CI 1.34-3.544, p < 0.001), FFP transfusion (OR 4.023, 95% CI 2.426-6.671, p < 0.001), and use of a standardized pretransfusion checklist (OR 8.875, 95% CI 5.496-14.332, p < 0.001) remained significantly associated with PRBC transfusion. The use of a preoperative standardized haemostasis questionnaire was independently associated with a decreased risk of perioperative PRBC transfusion (0.565, 95% CI 0.371-0.861, p = 0.008). Conclusions: Implementation of national PBM recommendations led to a reduction in FFP transfusion in a cardiac surgery centre. The use of a preoperative standardized haemostasis questionnaire is an independent predictor of a lower risk for PRBC transfusion in this setting.

Error traps in Pediatric Patient Blood Management in the Perioperative Period

Patient blood management is a patient-centered evidence-based approach to improve patient outcomes by harnessing the patient's own hematopoietic system to optimize blood health while promoting patient safety and empowerment. Perioperative patient blood management is a standard of care in adult medicine, yet it is not commonly accepted in pediatrics. Raising awareness may be the first step in improving perioperative care for the anemic and/or bleeding child. This article highlights five preventable perioperative blood conservation error traps for children. The goal is to provide practical clinical guidance to improve preoperative diagnosis and treatment of anemia, facilitate recognition and treatment of massive hemorrhage, reduce unnecessary allogeneic blood transfusions, and decrease associated complications of anemia and blood component transfusions utilizing a patient/family-centered informed consent and shared decision-making approach.

Validity and Utility of Early Parameters in TEG6s Platelet Mapping to Assess the Coagulation Status During Cardiovascular Surgery With Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Background The aim of this retrospective observational study was to explore the early predictive parameters for maximum amplitudein the kaolin with heparinase (HKH) assay (MA_HKH) of TEG6s Platelet Mapping in cardiovascular surgery including cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) period. The relationship between each parameter of the assay and laboratory data was also assessed. Methods We included the patients who underwent TEG6s Platelet Mapping during cardiovascular surgery under CPB between November 2021 and May 2022. The correlation between MA_HKH and the early parameters was assessed. The association between each parameter of Platelet Mapping and a combination of fibrinogen concentration > 150 mg/dL and platelet count > 100,000µL was also evaluated by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results In 23 patients who underwent TEG6s Platelet Mapping during the study period, 62 HKH assay data including 59 pairs of data (HKH assay and laboratory data) were analyzed. K and angle, but not R, were significantly correlated with MA_HKH (r [95% CI]: -0.90 [-0.94, -0.83], p < 0.0001 for K, and 0.87 [0.79, 0.92], p < 0.0001 for angle). Furthermore, ROC curves suggested that these parameters predicted a combination of fibrinogen concentration > 150 mg/dL and platelet count > 100,000/µL with high accuracy. Similar results were confirmed in the heparinized blood samples obtained during CPB. Conclusion These findings suggest that not only MA_KHK but also K and angle, which are early parameters in the HKH assay, provide clinically significant information that will facilitate rapid decision-making regarding coagulation strategies during cardiovascular surgery including the CPB period.

User Perceptions of ROTEM-Guided Haemostatic Resuscitation: A Mixed Qualitative-Quantitative Study

Viscoelastic point-of-care haemostatic resuscitation methods, such as ROTEM or TEG, are crucial in deciding on time-efficient personalised coagulation interventions. International transfusion guidelines emphasise increased patient safety and reduced treatment costs. We analysed care providers' perceptions of ROTEM to identify perceived strengths and areas for improvement. We conducted a single-centre, mixed qualitative-quantitative study consisting of interviews followed by an online survey. Using a template approach, we first identified themes in the responses given by care providers about ROTEM. Later, the participants rated six statements based on the identified themes on five-point Likert scales in an online questionnaire. Seventy-seven participants were interviewed, and 52 completed the online survey. By analysing user perceptions, we identified ten themes. The most common positive theme was "high accuracy". The most common negative theme was "need for training". In the online survey, 94% of participants agreed that monitoring the real-time ROTEM temograms helps to initiate targeted treatment more quickly and 81% agreed that recurrent ROTEM training would be beneficial. Anaesthesia care providers found ROTEM to be accurate and quickly available to support decision-making in dynamic and complex haemostatic situations. However, clinicians identified that interpreting ROTEM is a complex and cognitively demanding task that requires significant training needs.

Blood transfusion in aortic root surgery impairs midterm survival

Objective

To evaluate the effect of perioperative allogeneic packed red blood cell (RBC) transfusion during aortic root replacement.

Method

We reviewed patients undergoing aortic root replacement at our institution between March 2014 and April 2020. In total, 760 patients underwent aortic root replacement, of whom 442 (58%) received a perioperative RBC transfusion. Propensity score matching was used to account for baseline and operative differences resulting in 159 matched pairs. All-cause mortality was assessed with Kaplan-Meier curves. Data were obtained from our institutional Society of Thoracic Surgeons database and chart review.

Results

After propensity score matching, the RBC-transfused and -nontransfused groups were similar for all preoperative characteristics. Cardiopulmonary bypass time, crossclamp time, and lowest operative temperature were similar between the transfused and nontransfused groups (standardized mean difference <0.05). RBC transfusion was associated with more frequent postoperative ventilation greater than 24 hours (36/159 [23%] vs 19/159 [12%]; P = .01), postoperative hemodialysis (9/159 [5.7%] vs 0/159 [0%]; P = .003), reoperation for mediastinal hemorrhage (9/159 [5.7%] vs 0/159 [0%]; P = .003), and longer intensive care unit and hospital length of stay (3 vs 2 days and 8 vs 6 days respectively; P < .001). Thirty-day operative mortality after propensity score matching was similar between the cohorts (1.9%; 3/159 vs 0%; P = .2), and 5-year survival was reduced in the RBC transfusion cohort (90.2% [95% confidence interval, 84.1%-96.7%] vs 97.1% [95% confidence interval, 92.3%-100%] P = .035).

Conclusions

Aortic root replacement frequently requires RBC transfusion during and after the operation, but even after matching for observed preoperative and operative characteristics, RBC transfusion is associated with more frequent postoperative complications and reduced midterm survival.

Perioperative Anemia and Transfusions and Late Mortality in Coronary Artery Bypass Patients

BACKGROUND

Perioperative anemia and transfusions are associated with adverse operative outcomes after coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). Their individual association with long-term outcomes is unclear.

METHODS

Patients aged 65 years and older who had undergone CABG and were in The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) Adult Cardiac Surgery Database (n = 504,596) from 2011 to 2018 were linked to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service data to assess long-term survival. The association of intraoperative anemia defined by intraoperative nadir hematocrit (nHct) and red blood cell (RBC) transfusions, and their interactions, on long-term mortality were assessed with Kaplan-Meier estimates and multivariable Cox regression. Restricted cubic splines were used to explore the association between nHct as a continuous variable and long-term mortality.

RESULTS

258,398 on-pump CABG STS Adult Cardiac Surgery Database patients surviving the perioperative period were linked to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service claims files. Per World Health Organization criteria, 41% had preoperative anemia. Mean intraoperative nHct was 24%; RBC transfusion rate was 43.7%. Univariable analysis associated both RBC transfusion and lower nHct with worse survival. Lower nHct was only marginally associated with risk-adjusted mortality: adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) 1.04 (95% CI, 1.01-1.06) and 1.07 (95% CI, 1.00-1.14) at nHct 20% and at nHct 14%, respectively. RBC transfusion was associated with significantly higher adjusted mortality irrespective of timing of transfusion: AHR intraoperative 1.21 (95% CI, 1.18-1.27); AHR postoperative 1.26 (95% CI, 1.22-1.30); AHR both 1.46 (95% CI, 1.40-1.52) and across all levels of nHct. RBC transfusion was not associated with improved survival at any level of nHct.

CONCLUSIONS

Among Medicare CABG patients, RBC transfusions were associated with increased risk-adjusted late mortality across all levels of nHct whereas intraoperative anemia was only marginally so. Tolerance of lower intraoperative nHct than currently accepted may be preferable to transfusions.