[Analysis of the frequency of blood transfusion in surgery]

For the period from 1985 to 1987 were analysed the blood transfusions, which were carried out in seven surgical wards, within the scope of a study for quality assurance. 7.6% of the patients, treated in surgical ward and 5.4% of the patients, treated in traumatological ward, were given blood transfusion. The average was 3.6 transfusional units per treated patient. The biggest differences were to be remarked at cases of breast cancer and at thyroid gland surgery. The average transfusion frequency at breast cancer was 16% with a difference between 5 and 63%. In thyroid gland surgery the average transfusion frequency was 11%, differing between 1 and 54%. At these operation groups the blood transfusion were usually given once. Transfusional reactions, costs and responsibility towards the donor demand a turning away from scientifically non-established transfusion habits. The components concept by Lundsgaard should serve as an orientation.