[Intra- and postoperative blood loss].

Area of Science:

• Surgical outcomes research
• Patient safety in surgery

Context:

• Analysis of intra- and postoperative blood loss, transfusion volumes, and drainage in a large patient cohort (nearly 3700).
• Investigated the "wound-heeling" study by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie (DGOT).

Purpose:

• To present the initial findings of the DGOT-study "wound-heeling" regarding blood loss and transfusion practices.
• To identify surgical procedures associated with the highest blood loss and drainage volumes.
• To discuss patient-related problems and propose strategies for reducing transfusion rates.

Summary:

• Observed significantly high rates of intraoperative and postoperative blood loss across the patient population.
• Drainage volumes were consistently approximately half of the measured blood loss, with joint operations exhibiting higher drainage.
• Back and total hip arthroplasties were identified as procedures with the most substantial blood loss.

Impact:

• Highlights the need for improved blood management strategies in orthopedic and trauma surgery.
• Provides data to inform clinical practice guidelines aimed at minimizing patient transfusions.
• Contributes to enhanced patient safety by addressing complications associated with significant blood loss and transfusions.