Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026
A Modified Murine Heterotopic Heart Transplant Protocol Matching Contemporary Standards of Aseptic Technique, Anesthesia, and Analgesia
Published on: September 28, 2022
Bloodless cardiac surgery: not just possible, but preferable
1Open Heart Recovery Unit, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Sarasota, Fla, USA. leeann-putney@smh.com
Blood transfusions after cardiac surgery are very common, and the rates are highly variable among institutions. Transfusion carries the risk of infectious and noninfectious hazards and is often clinically unnecessary. This article discusses the history of bloodless cardiac surgery, the hazards of transfusion, the benefits of reducing or eliminating transfusion, and strategies to conserve blood. It also provides a list of resources for those who are interested in learning more about bloodless care.
Blood transfusions after cardiac surgery are very common, and the rates are highly variable among institutions. Transfusion carries the risk of infectious and noninfectious hazards and is often clinically unnecessary. This article discusses the history of bloodless cardiac surgery, the hazards of transfusion, the benefits of reducing or eliminating transfusion, and strategies to conserve blood. It also provides a list of resources for those who are interested in learning more about bloodless care.
