Retrospective Study on Red Cell Usage in Primary Total Knee Replacement Surgery

Background and Objectives: There is wide variation in the use of red cell transfusions for the same clinical indication. The purpose of the study was to comment on preoperative and discharge haemoglobin (Hb) levels and perioperative blood loss, and to project the Hb level if transfusions were not administered. Materials and Methods: The case notes of 187 patients who underwent primary total knee replacement were reviewed retrospectively. Results: More than 90% of the transfusions were given in the immediate postoperative period as a matter of routine and a significant number of transfusions appeared to be unnecessary. Conclusion: For surgical procedures involving moderate blood loss, transfusions should not be given as a routine and the decision to transfuse should take into consideration the clinical state of the patient, blood loss and pre- and postoperative Hb levels.