Transfusion of 1 and 2 Units of Red Blood Cells Is Associated With Increased Morbidity and Mortality [1]
The effect of blood transfusion (Tx; 1-2 units only) on mortality after isolated CABG was evaluated in nearly 17,000 pts in Michigan. Operative mortality was 0.5% for no Tx and 1.3% for Tx (p<0.0001). Nine other adverse postoperative outcomes were significantly increased in pts receiving Tx. Aggressive attempts at reducing even small Tx amounts may result in substantial outcomes improvement.
Source name:
Annals of Thoracic Surgery