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Updated: May 27, 2026
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Knee Arthrocentesis in Adults
Published on: February 25, 2022
Transfusion drains versus suction drains in total knee replacement: meta-analysis
Sheraz R Markar1, Gareth G Jones, Alan Karthikesalingam
1Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, 235 Euston Road, London NW1 2BU, UK. sheraz_markar@hotmail.com
Summary
Autologous transfusion drains in total knee replacement reduce the need for blood transfusions and shorten hospital stays. Further research is recommended for subtle outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Transfusion Medicine
- Evidence-Based Medicine
Background:
- Autologous blood transfusion drains are debated in orthopaedic surgery.
- Their efficacy in total knee replacement (TKR) requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a meta-analysis on the use of autologous blood transfusion drains in TKR.
- To evaluate the impact on homologous blood transfusion requirements and patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of eight randomized controlled trials.
- Primary outcomes: homologous blood transfusion need, pre/post-operative hemoglobin.
- Secondary outcomes: drainage volume, hospital stay, infection, DVT.
Main Results:
- Autologous drains significantly reduced the need for post-operative blood transfusions (OR=0.36, P=0.02).
- Reduced units transfused per patient (WMD=-0.84, P<0.0001) and length of hospital stay (WMD=-0.25, P=0.04).
Conclusions:
- Autologous transfusion drains offer clinical and economic benefits in TKR.
- Reduced transfusion needs and shorter hospital stays are key advantages.
- Further large-scale trials are recommended to clarify subtle effects on outcomes.
