[Cardiac surgery in Jehovah's Witnesses. Experience in Santander, Spain]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Transfusion Medicine
• Surgical Patient Management

Context:

• Jehovah's Witnesses decline blood transfusions, posing management challenges for cardiac surgery.
• Cardiac interventions necessitate careful consideration of blood management strategies.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the safety and outcomes of cardiac surgery in Jehovah's Witnesses.
• To assess the impact of technological advancements on managing patients refusing blood transfusions.

Summary:

• Ten Jehovah's Witness patients underwent cardiac surgery between 1998 and 2004.
• Significant hematocrit drops were observed during cardiopulmonary bypass and postoperatively.
• One patient required re-exploration for sternal bleeding; all patients survived surgery, with one late death from respiratory failure.

Impact:

• Despite challenges, cardiac surgery is achievable for Jehovah's Witnesses.
• Technological innovations in reducing and recovering blood loss are crucial for this patient population.
• Improved surgical techniques and blood management enhance patient safety in complex cardiac procedures.