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Ann Thorac Surg 2009;87:532-539. doi:10.1016/j.athoracsur.2008.10.044
© 2009 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons
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Edy S. Zelinka
Ruyun Jin
Gary L. Grunkemeier
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Original Articles: Adult Cardiac

Blood Transfusion Reduction in Cardiac Surgery: Multidisciplinary Approach at a Community Hospital

James Brevig, MDa,c,*, Julie McDonald, BSNa, Edy S. Zelinka, CCPa,b, Trudi Gallagher, RNa, Ruyun Jin, MDd, Gary L. Grunkemeier, PhDd

a Providence Regional Medical Center Everett, Everett, Washington
b Advanced Perfusion Care, Inc, Pinehurst, North Carolina
c Everett Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgical Associates, Everett, Washington
d Medical Data Research Center, Providence Health & Services, Portland, Oregon

Accepted for publication October 16, 2008.

* Address correspondence to Dr Brevig, 1330 Rockefeller Ave, Suite 400, Everett, WA 98206 (Email: james.brevig{at}providence.org).

Background: Mounting evidence exists for more restrictive blood transfusion practices in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Few studies, however, have recognized or agree upon a method by which this decrease in allogeneic red blood cell transfusion can be achieved. We will review our methods and experience in a blood conservation initiative from 2003 to 2007.

Methods: A data driven, multidisciplinary effort to decrease allogeneic red blood cell transfusion was instituted in a community hospital. Numerous innovations in treatment protocols were implemented and evaluated. Clinical data from 2003 to 2007 will be presented. Yearly review of outcomes led to an evolving clinical practice and lowered transfusion rates.

Results: A total of 2,531 consecutive cardiac surgical procedures were performed during a five-year period. Using a multidisciplinary approach to quality improvement, and with the goal of using fewer blood products, our incidence of allogeneic red blood cell transfusion was decreased, from 43% in 2003 to 18% in 2007. Patient outcomes were not significantly changed.

Conclusions: Cardiac surgery in a community hospital can be performed safely with low utilization of allogeneic red blood cell transfusions. A multidisciplinary approach to blood conservation can result in lower transfusion rates and equivalent patient outcomes.


Related Article

Cumulative Sum Curves and Their Prediction Limits
Gary L. Grunkemeier, Ruyun Jin, and YingXing Wu
Ann. Thorac. Surg. 2009 87: 361-364. [Extract] [Full Text] [PDF]



This article has been cited by other articles:


Home page
 Ann. Thorac. Surg.Home page
G. L. Grunkemeier, R. Jin, and Y. Wu
Cumulative sum curves and their prediction limits.
Ann. Thorac. Surg., February 1, 2009; 87(2): 361 - 364.
[Full Text] [PDF]


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