Impact of perioperative transfusions and sepsis on long-term oncologic outcomes after curative colon cancer resection. A retrospective analysis of a prospective database.

OBJECTIVE: Intra-abdominal septic complications (IASC) affect short-term outcomes after surgery for colon cancer. Blood transfusions have been associated with worse short-term results. The role of IASC and blood transfusions on long-term oncologic results is still debated. This study aims to assess the impact of these two variables on survival after curative colon cancer resection. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent curative surgery for colon cancer at a university hospital, between 1993 and 2010. Cox regression was used to identify the role of IASC and transfusions (alone and combined) on local recurrence (LR), disease-free survival (DFS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS). RESULTS: Out of the 1686 patients analyzed, 1277 fit in the inclusion criteria. Colorectal surgeons performed the procedure in 82.2% of the patients. Blood transfusions were administered to 25.8% of the patients. Thirty-day complication and mortality rates were 34.5% and 6.1%. IASC occurred in 9.9%. The mean follow-up was 66 months. The 5-year rates of LR, DFS, and CSS were 7%, 79.8%, and 85.1%. The year of surgery and pT (Hazard ratio 9.35, 95% CI 1.23-70.9, for T4) and pN (Hazard ratio 2.57, 95% CI 1.39-4.72, for N2) stages were independent risk factors for LR. The same variables, bowel obstruction and surgeries performed by surgeons not specialized in colorectal surgery, were also associated with worse DFS and CSS. IASC and blood transfusions were not associated with LR, DFS, and CSS, whether alone or combined. CONCLUSIONS: IASC and transfusions were not associated with worse oncological outcomes after curative colon cancer surgery per se. Other factors were more important predictors of survival.

Effectiveness of blood transfusions and risk factors for mortality in children aged from 1 month to 4 years at the Bon Marché Hospital, Bunia, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness of blood transfusions in a hospital of north-eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. METHODS: Prospective study of children admitted for severe anaemia. During admission, data were collected on clinical condition and haemoglobin levels, before and after blood transfusion. A linear regression model was built to explore factors associated with haemoglobin level after transfusion. Risk factors for mortality were explored through multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS: Haemoglobin level (Hb) was below 4 g/dl in 35% (230/657), between 4 and 6 g/dl in 58% (348/657) and at least 6 g/dl in another 6% (43/657) of the transfused children. A transfusion of 15 ml/kg of whole blood increased the Hb from 4.4 to 7.8 g/dl. Haemoglobin level after transfusion was associated with baseline Hb, quantity of delivered blood and history of previous transfusions. Overall case-fatality rate was 5.6% (37/657). Risk factors for deaths were co-morbidities such as chest infection, meningitis or malnutrition, Hb ≥ 6 g/dl, impaired consciousness or jugular venous distention on admission, and provenance. CONCLUSION: Transfusion was a frequent practice, the use of which could clearly have been rationalised. While indications should be restricted, quantities of transfused blood should be adapted to needs.

Clinical characteristics and indications for blood transfusion in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

BACKGROUND: There are few data on the clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients who require blood transfusion. We aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and indication for transfusion in COVID-19 patients seen during the epidemic's first wave. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study that included all consecutive COVID-19 patients admitted to the Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, Spain, from mid-March to mid-May 2020. RESULTS: A total of 80 patients received 354 RBC units, 116 plasma units, and 48 platelet units. Median age was 71 years (IQR: 62-76), and 59 (74%) were males. In total, 138 of the 261 transfusion episodes that involved RBCs (59%) were related to spontaneous (n=94) or procedure-related (n=44) bleeding. Spontaneous bleeding was more frequent in the retroperitoneal space and the gastrointestinal apparatus. Tracheostomy with endotracheal intubation, surgical interventions, and cannulation of femoral vessels were the main procedures behind non-spontaneous bleeding. Most patients (91%) were on anticoagulants, mostly intermediate- or full-dose heparin. CONCLUSION: Anticoagulation-related bleeding was a leading cause of blood transfusion in COVID-19 patients during the epidemic's first-wave.

No effect of desmopressin administration before kidney biopsy on the risk of major post-biopsy bleeding.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The most important complication of kidney biopsy is bleeding, and it is unclear whether desmopressin is effective in preventing it. Thus, the study was conducted to compare post-biopsy bleeding with or without desmopressin prescription prior to percutaneous kidney biopsy. METHODS: In this single-centered, retrospective, and observational study, 3,018 adult patients who underwent kidney biopsy between January 1, 2003 and March 31, 2019 at our institute were recruited. Of these, 776 patients received desmopressin. To compare the differences in major bleeding events between patients administered and not administered with desmopressin, propensity score matching was performed. RESULTS: Before propensity score (PS) matching, it was observed that patients in the desmopressin group were significantly older (p<0.001) and had a higher blood pressure (p<0.001), higher serum creatinine (p<0.001), lower hemoglobin levels (p<0.001), and lower platelet counts (p=0.001) than those in the no-desmopressin group. Furthermore, the incidence of renal artery embolization was not significantly different between the two groups (p=0.077); however, blood transfusions occurred significantly more frequently in the desmopressin group (p<0.001). A comparison of the two groups after PS matching did not reveal any differences in the incidence of renal artery embolization (p=0.341), blood transfusion (p=0.579), and total major bleeding events (p=0.442). Furthermore, there was no difference in the incidence of perinephric hematoma on computed tomography or ultrasound (p=0.120). CONCLUSIONS: We do not recommend desmopressin administration before kidney biopsy.

No effect of desmopressin administration before kidney biopsy on the risk of major post-biopsy bleeding.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The most important complication of kidney biopsy is bleeding, and it is unclear whether desmopressin is effective in preventing it. Thus, the study was conducted to compare post-biopsy bleeding with or without desmopressin prescription prior to percutaneous kidney biopsy. METHODS: In this single-centered, retrospective, and observational study, 3,018 adult patients who underwent kidney biopsy between January 1, 2003 and March 31, 2019 at our institute were recruited. Of these, 776 patients received desmopressin. To compare the differences in major bleeding events between patients administered and not administered with desmopressin, propensity score matching was performed. RESULTS: Before propensity score (PS) matching, it was observed that patients in the desmopressin group were significantly older (p<0.001) and had a higher blood pressure (p<0.001), higher serum creatinine (p<0.001), lower hemoglobin levels (p<0.001), and lower platelet counts (p=0.001) than those in the no-desmopressin group. Furthermore, the incidence of renal artery embolization was not significantly different between the two groups (p=0.077); however, blood transfusions occurred significantly more frequently in the desmopressin group (p<0.001). A comparison of the two groups after PS matching did not reveal any differences in the incidence of renal artery embolization (p=0.341), blood transfusion (p=0.579), and total major bleeding events (p=0.442). Furthermore, there was no difference in the incidence of perinephric hematoma on computed tomography or ultrasound (p=0.120). CONCLUSIONS: We do not recommend desmopressin administration before kidney biopsy.

Universal definition of perioperative bleeding in cardiac surgery adults and association with mortality in a Mexican Cardiovascular Critical Care Unit.

Background: Bleeding as a complication is associated with poorer results in cardiac surgery. There is increasing evidence that the use of blood products is an independent factor of increased morbidity, mortality, and hospital costs. Dyke et al. established the universal definition of perioperative bleeding (UDPB). This classification is more precise defining mortality in relation to the degree of bleeding. Methods: A descriptive and analytical retrospective study of a database of patients underwent cardiac surgery from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2017, was performed. The primary objective of the study was to look at mortality associated with the degree of bleeding using the UDPB. Results: A total of 918 patients who went to cardiac surgery were obtained. Most of the population was classified as insignificant bleeding class (n = 666, 72.9%), and for massive bleeding the lowest proportion (n = 25, 2.7%). For the primary outcome of 30-day mortality, a significant difference was found between the groups, observing that it increased to a higher degree of bleeding. This was corroborated by multivariate logistic regression analysis that was adjusted to EuroScore II and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) duration, finding an independent association of the bleeding class with 30-day mortality (OR, 95%, 5.82 [2.22-15.26], p = 0.0001). Conclusions: We found that the higher the degree in UDPB was associated with higher mortality independently to EuroScore II and CPB duration for adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Antecedentes: El sangrado como complicación está asociado a peores resultados en cirugía cardiaca. Existe una evidencia cada vez mayor que la transfusión de productos sanguíneos por si solo es un factor independiente de incremento en la morbilidad, mortalidad, y costos hospitalarios. Dyke y colaboradores establecieron la definición universal de sangrado perioperatorio. Esta clasificación es más precisa en definir mortalidad en relación con el grado de sangrado. Material y métodos: Se realizo un estudio descriptivo y analítico de tipo retrospectivo de una base de datos de pacientes que fueron a cirugía cardiaca del 1 enero del 2016 al 31 de diciembre del 2017. El objetivo primario del estudio fue observar la mortalidad asociada con el grado de sangrado utilizando la definición universal de sangrado perioperatorio. Resultados: Se obtuvieron un total de 918 pacientes que fueron a cirugía cardiaca. La mayor parte de la población fue clasificada como clase de sangrado insignificante (n = 666, 72.9%), y para sangrado masivo la menor proporción (n = 25, 2.7%). En el desenlace primario de mortalidad a 30 días se encontró una diferencia significativa entre los grupos, observando que aumentada a mayor clase de sangrado. Esto fue corroborado mediante un análisis multivariado regresión logística que fue ajustado a con EuroScore II y el tiempo de bomba de circulación extracorpórea, encontrando una asociación independiente de la clase de sangrado con mortalidad a 30 días (OR, 95%, 5.82 [2.22-15.26], p = 0.0001). Conclusiones: Encontramos que cuanto mayor era el grado en la UDPB se asociaba con una mayor mortalidad independientemente de EuroScore II y la duración del bypass cardiopulmonar para pacientes adultos sometidos a cirugía cardíaca.

Development of blood transfusion external quality assessment program at national scale / Desarrollo de un programa de evaluación externa de calidad de la transfusión sanguínea a nivel nacional

Introduction: External quality assessment is a crucial component in ensuring the quality of blood transfusion testing laboratories. Objectives: To develop a procedure for generating external quality assessment items for blood transfusion testing to evaluate participants' performance. Methods: Experimental research was conducted at Quality Control Center for Medical laboratory- University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Three items, including red blood cell, serum, and atypical antibody serum samples, were assessed for homogeneity and stability; 5 assessment areas, including ABO grouping, Rh grouping, compatible cross matches, Coombs test, and screening of atypical antibodies, were utilized to evaluate the performance of 38 participants in the 2020-2021 period. Results: Red blood cell and serum samples maintained quality for a specific period at controlled temperatures, while serum samples with atypical antibodies showed stability at different temperatures. The participants demonstrated high satisfactory performance in ABO grouping, Rh grouping, Coombs test, and screening for atypical antibodies. However, the most unsatisfactory performance was reported in crossmatching, with 15 percent of participants unsatisfactory results. Conclusion: The procedure of production of proficiency testing items has been successfully developed, and its application at the national level is suggested to improve the quality of blood transfusion laboratories(AU)

Introducción: La evaluación externa de calidad es esencial para asegurar la calidad de los laboratorios de pruebas de transfusión sanguínea. Objetivos: Desarrollar un procedimiento para generar elementos de evaluación externa de calidad y evaluar el rendimiento de los participantes en pruebas de transfusión sanguínea. Métodos: Estudio experimental realizado en el Centro de Control de Calidad para Laboratorios Médicos de la Universidad de Medicina y Farmacia en la Ciudad de Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. Se evaluaron muestras de glóbulos rojos, suero y suero con anticuerpos atípicos para homogeneidad y estabilidad. Se utilizaron 5 áreas de evaluación, incluida la agrupación ABO, la agrupación Rh, las coincidencias cruzadas compatibles, la prueba de Coombs y la detección de anticuerpos atípicos, para evaluar el desempeño de 38 participantes, en el período 2020-2021. Resultados: Las muestras de glóbulos rojos y suero mantuvieron la calidad durante un período específico a temperaturas controladas, mientras que las muestras de suero con anticuerpos atípicos mostraron estabilidad a diferentes temperaturas. Los participantes obtuvieron un alto rendimiento en algunas áreas, como la agrupación ABO y Rh, la prueba de Coombs y la detección de anticuerpos atípicos. Sin embargo, las pruebas de compatibilidad reportaron un rendimiento insatisfactorio en un 15 por cientode los participantes. Conclusión: El procedimiento desarrollado cumple con los criterios de calidad, y se sugiere su aplicación a nivel nacional para mejorar la calidad de los laboratorios de transfusión sanguínea(AU)

Sergei Yudin (1891-1954) y la transfusión de sangre cadavérica. Sus repercusiones en Europa occidental / Sergei Yudin (1891-1954) and the cadaveric blood transfusion. It’s repercussions in Western Europe

Este trabajo tiene como principal objetivo rescatar del olvido la historia de las transfusiones de sangre cadavérica y la figura de su principal artífice, Sergei Yudin. Para ello, se lleva a cabo una revisión sistemática de fuentes bibliográficas en diferentes idiomas para describir su trayectoria vital y su obra científica. La idea partió de las experiencias transfusionales en perros de Vladimir Shamov y fue desarrollada clínicamente a partir de 1930 por Yudin en el Instituto Sklifosovsky de Medicina de Emergencia de Moscú, donde se realizaron transfusiones de sangre cadavérica humana de manera regular durante cuatro décadas. La conservación de esta sangre durante varias semanas permitió la creación del primer banco de sangre en el mundo y fue el punto de partida de los trasplantes clínicos, considerando que la sangre es un tejido especial. A finales de los años veinte y principios de los treinta, Yudin viajó a Alemania, Francia, España e Inglaterra y gozó de gran prestigio entre los círculos médicos internacionales, incluidos los catalanes y españoles. El curso de su vida fue azaroso, pasando de ser el cirujano más prestigioso de la Unión Soviética al ostracismo tras ser encarcelado en 1948 y posteriormente desterrado a Siberia.

This work aims to rescue from oblivion the history of cadaveric blood transfusions and the figure of its main protagonist, Sergei Yudin. For this reason, an extensive review of bibliographic sources in Russian and other languages is carried out to describe Yudin’s life trajectory and his scientific work. The idea originated from Vladimir Shamov’s transfusion experiences in dogs and started clinically in 1930 by Yudin at the Sklifosovsky Institute of Emergency Medicine in Moscow, where human cadaveric blood transfusions were performed on a regular basis for four decades. The conservation of this blood for several weeks allowed the creation of the first blood bank in the world and was the starting point of clinical transplants, considering that blood is a special tissue. In the late 1920s and early 1930s, Yudin traveled to Germany, France, Spain and England and enjoyed great prestige in international medical circles, including Catalan and Spanish. The course of his life was arduous, going from being the most prestigious surgeon in the Soviet Union to ostracism after being imprisoned in 1948 and later exiled to Siberia.

Serología y lucha antivenérea en el Instituto de Transfusión Sanguínea de Valencia (1937-1938): María Hervás Moncho / Serology and venereal control at the Blood Transfusion Institute of Valencia (1937-1938): María Hervás Moncho

ABSTRACT: During the Spanish Civil War, military transfusion services appeared for the first time. In Barcelona and Valencia –two of the main strongholds of the Republican rear– blood transfusion institutes were set up during the struggle. The one in Valencia had, as an annex, a serology laboratory run by María Hervás Moncho (1894-1963). Hitherto unknown to historiography, this Valencian doctor had spent a long training period at the Pasteur Institute in Paris during the 1920s under the tutelage of the prestigious immunologist Alex-andre Besredka (1870-1940). The aim of this paper is to rescue the figure of María Hervás Moncho from historiographical oblivion, and to analyze her work as the leader of the laboratory of the Institute of Blood Transfusion in Valencia. Hervás was particularly interested in increasing the sensitivity of serological tests used in the diagnosis of syphilis in order to reduce the incidence of false negatives and, therefore, of possible post-transfusion infections. In order to achieve our purpose several archival, hemerographical and bibliographical sources, both manuscript and printed, have been consulted. These are enumerated in the introduction

RESUMEN: Durante la Guerra Civil Española aparecieron por primera vez los servicios militares de transfusión. En Barcelona y Valencia –dos de los principales bastiones de la retaguardia republicana– se habilitaron durante la contienda sendos institutos de transfusión sanguínea. El de Valencia disponía, anexo, de un laboratorio de serología dirigido por María Hervás Moncho (1894-1963). Desconocida por la historiografía, esta médica valenciana había realizado durante la década de 1920 una prolongada estancia de formación en el Ins-tituto Pasteur de París bajo la tutela del prestigioso inmunólogo Alexandre Besredka (1870-1940). El objetivo de este trabajo es rescatar del olvido historiográfico la figura de María Hervás Moncho, analizando su trabajo al frente del laboratorio del Instituto de TransfusiónSanguínea de Valencia. Hervás estaba especialmente interesada en aumentar la sensibilidad de las pruebas serológicas empleadas en el diagnóstico de la sífilis al objeto de disminuir la incidencia de falsos negativos y, por tanto, de eventuales contagios post-transfusio-nales. Para alcanzar los objetivos planteados se han consultado diversas fuentes archivísticas, hemerográficas y bibliográficas, tanto manuscritas como impresas, que se especifican en la introducción.

No effect of desmopressin administration before kidney biopsy on the risk of major post-biopsy bleeding / Ausencia de efecto de la administración de desmopresina antes de una biopsia renal sobre el riesgo de hemorragia mayor tras la biopsia

Background/Aims: The most important complication of kidney biopsy is bleeding, and it is unclear whether desmopressin is effective in preventing it. Thus, the study was conducted to compare post-biopsy bleeding with or without desmopressin prescription prior to percutaneous kidney biopsy.MethodsIn this single-centered, retrospective, and observational study, 3,018 adult patients who underwent kidney biopsy between January 1, 2003 and March 31, 2019 at our institute were recruited. Of these, 776 patients received desmopressin. To compare the differences in major bleeding events between patients administered and not administered with desmopressin, propensity score matching was performed.ResultsBefore propensity score (PS) matching, it was observed that patients in the desmopressin group were significantly older (p<0.001) and had a higher blood pressure (p<0.001), higher serum creatinine (p<0.001), lower hemoglobin levels (p<0.001), and lower platelet counts (p=0.001) than those in the no-desmopressin group. Furthermore, the incidence of renal artery embolization was not significantly different between the two groups (p=0.077); however, blood transfusions occurred significantly more frequently in the desmopressin group (p<0.001). A comparison of the two groups after PS matching did not reveal any differences in the incidence of renal artery embolization (p=0.341), blood transfusion (p=0.579), and total major bleeding events (p=0.442). Furthermore, there was no difference in the incidence of perinephric hematoma on computed tomography or ultrasound (p=0.120).ConclusionsWe do not recommend desmopressin administration before kidney biopsy. (AU)

Antecedentes/objetivos: La complicación más importante de la biopsia renal es la hemorragia y no está claro si la desmopresina es eficaz en su prevención. Por lo tanto, el estudio se realizó para comparar la hemorragia tras una biopsia renal percutánea con o sin prescripción de desmopresina previa a esta.MétodosEn este estudio unicéntrico, retrospectivo y observacional se seleccionaron 3.018 pacientes adultos que se sometieron a una biopsia renal entre el 1 de enero de 2003 y el 31 de marzo de 2019 en nuestro instituto. De ellos, 776 pacientes recibieron desmopresina. Para comparar las diferencias en los acontecimientos de hemorragia mayor entre los pacientes que recibieron desmopresina y los que no, se realizó un emparejamiento por puntuación de propensión.ResultadosAntes del emparejamiento por puntuación de propensión, se observó que los pacientes del grupo con desmopresina tenían una edad significativamente mayor (p<0,001) y presentaban una presión arterial más alta (p<0,001), una creatinina sérica más alta (p<0,001), niveles de hemoglobina más bajos (p<0,001) y recuentos de plaquetas más bajos (p=0,001) que los del grupo sin desmopresina. Además, la incidencia de embolización de la arteria renal no fue significativamente diferente entre los 2 grupos (p=0,077); sin embargo, las transfusiones de sangre se produjeron con una frecuencia significativamente mayor en el grupo con desmopresina (p<0,001). Una comparación de los 2 grupos tras el emparejamiento por puntuación de propensión no reveló diferencias en la incidencia de embolización de la arteria renal (p=0,341), la transfusión de sangre (p=0,579) y los acontecimientos de hemorragia mayor totales (p=0,442). Además, no se observaron diferencias en la incidencia de hematomas perinéfricos en la tomografía computarizada o la ecografía (p=0,120).ConclusionesNo se recomienda la administración de desmopresina antes de una biopsia renal. (AU)

Vancomycin added to the wash solution of the cell-saver. Effect on bacterial contamination. / Adición de vancomicina al suero de lavado del recuperador de sangre. Efecto sobre la contaminación bacteriana.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to test whether the addition of a low-dose of antibiotic (vancomycin) to the wash solution (saline) of the cell-saver reduces the incidence of bacterial contamination of the autologous red blood cell (RBCs) concentrate recovered. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Experimental, randomized, double-blind, parallel group study performed on 20 consecutive patients scheduled for posterior spinal fusion surgery. Intraoperative bleeding was processed through a cell-saver: HaemoLite® 2+, in which the RBCs were washed according to randomization group, with saline (control group) or saline+10µg/ml-1 vancomycin (vanco group). Data regarding age, weight, processed and recovered volume, blood count, blood culture, and vancomycin concentration in RBCs concentrates obtained and incidence of fever after reinfusion were collected. RESULTS: Processed volume was 843±403ml and recovered volume 121±29ml, with haemoglobin concentration 10.4±5.0g/dl-1 and haematocrit 29.1±15.9% (mean±SD). Recovered RBC concentrate cultures were positive for coagulase-negative Staphylococcus in 5 cases (50%) of the control group while all cultures were negative in the vanco group (P=.016). The difference between the theoretical concentration of vancomycin administered and the concentration determined in the recovered RBC concentrate was 1.31µg/ml-1 (95% CI 1.19 to 1.43; P=.074). CONCLUSIONS: The addition of vancomycin at a concentration of 10ug/ml-1 to the wash solution of the cell-saver achieved similar concentrations in the autologous blood concentrate recovered allowing for bacterial removal, with negative blood cultures in all cases.

El servicio de transfusión del ejército republicano durante la Guerra Civil Española y su influencia en Gran Bretaña en la Segunda Guerra Mundial / The blood transfusion service of the republican army during the Spanish Civil War and its influence in Great Britain in World War II

Al final de la Primera Guerra Mundial, el valor de la transfusión sanguínea era ampliamente reconocido, pero no fue hasta la Guerra Civil Española (1936-1939) cuando se crearon grandes organizaciones civiles de donantes de sangre para proporcionar sangre conservada (citratada) para la transfusión en pacientes civiles y militares en ambos bandos. Se desarrollaron técnicas de transfusión indirecta para administrar esta sangre, con instrumental de fácil manejo, capaz de ser llevado a cabo en cualquier lugar y por cualquiera con experiencia en la administración de inyecciones endovenosas. También se establecieron sistemas eficaces de transporte y distribución, a fin de abastecer adecuadamente las instalaciones sanitarias que prestaban servicio en los frentes de batalla en movimiento. Este trabajo pionero permitió la creación, por primera vez en la historia, de servicios militares de transfusión de sangre. Si bien este fue el caso tanto de las fuerzas insurgentes (nacionalistas) como del Gobierno republicano español, es este último el que constituye el foco de estudio aquí. Esto es posible gracias a las publicaciones del hematólogo catalán Frederic Duran Jordà, creador y director del Servicio Republicano de Transfusión de Sangre, que detallan las técnicas y procedimientos desarrollados durante la guerra para la recogida, análisis, distribución y transfusión de sangre. Esta información se amplía, especialmente con respecto a la aplicación práctica de la transfusión en primera línea, gracias a diferentes publicaciones del Dr. Reginald Saxton, voluntario británico integrado en la Sanidad Militar de la Republica. Es nuestra intención demostrar que las autoridades británicas se beneficiaron de la experiencia española en vísperas del estallido de la Segunda Guerra Mundial en 1939. Les ayudó a desarrollar planes para los servicios de transfusión que resultarían cruciales en el tratamiento de bajas civiles y militares durante la contienda. Frederic Duran Jordà y Reginald Saxton fueron asesores clave, junto con otros que regresaban de España, incluyendo a la reconocida hematóloga británica, Janet Vaughan. Además, los principios desarrollados en España (1936-39) para la práctica militar de transfusiones de sangre siguen respaldando las medidas actuales de reanimación de heridos en el campo de batalla.

By the end of the First World War, the value of blood transfusion was widely recognized, but it was not until the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) that large civilian blood donor organizations were created to provide preserved (citrated) blood for transfusion, for both civilian and military patients. Indirect transfusion techniques were developed to administer this blood, with easy-to-use instruments, capable of being carried out anywhere and by any medical personnel with experience in the administration of intravenous injections. Efficient transportation and distribution systems were also established in order to adequately supply the sanitary facilities that served the moving battle fronts. This pioneering work enabled the creation, for the first time in history, of military blood transfusion services. While this was the case for both the insurgent (Nationalist) forces and those of the Spanish Republican Government, it is the latter that forms the focus of this particular study. This is made possible by the publications of Catalan hematologist Frederic Duran Jordà, creator and director of the Republican Blood Transfusion Service, who details the techniques and procedures developed during the war for the collection, testing, distribution and transfusion of blood. Further insight - especially with regard to the practical application of front-line transfusion - can be gleaned from the various writings of Dr Reginald Saxton, British volunteer with the Republican Sanidad Militar. It is the intention, here, to demonstrate that the British authorities benefitted greatly from the Spanish experience in the development of plans for transfusion services that would prove crucial in treating civilian and military casualties during World War II (1939-1945). Frederic Duran Jordà, and Reginald Saxton were key advisers, together with others returning from Spain, including renowned British hematologist, Janet Vaughan. Moreover, the principles developed in Spain (1936-39) for delivery of military blood transfusion practice still support current measures in battlefield casualty resuscitation.

Cost-effectiveness of post-operative cell salvage in total knee arthroplasty. Should we continue to recommend its use today? / Análisis de coste-eficacia del recuperador postoperatorio de sangre de drenajes en cirugía protésica primaria de rodilla. ¿Debemos seguir recomendando su empleo en la actualidad?

OBJECTIVES: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has a high transfusion rate. In our protocol, the use of postoperative cell salvage is indicated in patients with contraindications to tranexamic acid (TA). An analysis was performed on the effect of post-operative cell salvage (POCS) regarding transfusion rate and costs in patients undergoing TKA. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective analysis was conducted on 518 patients, of whom 434 received TA, and 84 were contraindicated. The red cell mass, blood volume, and the percentage of lost blood volume were calculated. Incidents associated with the use of post-operative re-perfusion of drained blood and the rate of transfusion were recorded. An analysis was performed on the costs associated with allogeneic transfusion prevention methods. RESULTS: A POCS drain was not inserted in 10 out of the 84 patients not candidates for TA. In the 74 in which it was placed, 158±72ml of red cell mass was reinfused. The allogeneic transfusion rate was 36%, and was 52% in those with no drain inserted. Relative risk of transfusion using POCS was 0.69 (0.41 to 1.16) with an absolute risk reduction of 16% (-8 to 40%). The number needed to treat to avoid allogeneic transfusion was 7. The direct costs to avoid allogeneic transfusion were €1,610. No complications associated with blood re-infusion were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The use of POCS would be required in 7 patients after TKA to avoid one allogeneic transfusion with a cost over 10 times that of a transfusion of red cell concentrates.

Hemovigilância: conhecimento da equipe de enfermagem sobre reações transfusionais / Hemovigilance: knowledge of the nursing team about transfusion reactions / Hemovigilancia: conocimiento del equipo de enfermería sobre las reacciones transfusionales

Objetivo: Analisar o grau de conhecimento da equipe de enfermagem sobre hemoterapia e reação transfusional imediata. Método: Estudo transversal, analítico, quantitativo, realizado com profissionais de enfermagem da Unidade de Terapia Intensiva de um hospital de referência do Nordeste, por meio da aplicação de um instrumento semiestruturado, no período de março a abril de 2020. O escore de conhecimento foi obtido pela Análise de Correspondência Múltipla e pelo teste de comparação de medianas de Monte Carlo. Resultados: Dos 32 participantes, oito eram enfermeiros e 24 técnicos de enfermagem. A maioria não recebeu treinamento sobre hemoterapia 24 (75%) e referiu não se sentir capacitada para atuar em reação transfusional imediata 22 (68,8%). Quanto ao grau de conhecimento, verificou-se que os enfermeiros apresentaram melhores escores em relação aos técnicos (mediana 77,7 vs. 33,8; p=0,04). Identificou-se, também, que a faixa etária 18 a 40 anos apresentou melhor resultado em relação a faixa de 40 anos ou mais (mediana 62,7 vs. 25,5; p=0,01). Conclusão: Verificou-se a importância dos profissionais de enfermagem participarem de treinamento sobre administração de hemocomponentes e hemoderivados, visando melhorar a qualidade da assistência e manutenção do protocolo de segurança do paciente. (AU)

Objective: To analyze the degree of knowledge of the nursing team about hemotherapy and immediate transfusion reaction. Methods: Cross-sectional, analytical, quantitative study carried out with nursing professionals from the Intensive Care Unit of a reference hospital in the brazilian Northeast, through the application of a semi-structured instrument, from March to April 2020. The knowledge score was obtained by the Multiple Correspondence Analysis and the Monte Carlo median comparison test. Results: Of the 32 participants, eight were nurses and 24 nursing technicians. Most did not receive training on hemotherapy 24 (75%) and did not feel qualified to act in an immediate transfusion reaction 22 (68.8%). As for the degree of knowledge, we found that nurses (median 77.7) had better scores compared to technicians (median 77,7 vs. 33,8; p=0,04). It was also identified that the age group 18 to 40 years old had a better result in relation to the age group 40 or older (median 62,7 vs. 25,5; p=0,01). Conclusion: It was verified the importance of nursing professionals to participate in training on the administration of blood components and blood products, aiming to improve the quality of care and maintenance of the patient safety protocol. (AU)

Objetivo: Analizar el grado de conocimiento del equipo de enfermería sobre hemoterapia y reacción transfusional inmediata. Métodos: Estudio transversal, analítico, cuantitativo realizado con profesionales de enfermería de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos de un hospital de referencia del Nordeste brasileño, mediante la aplicación de un instrumento semiestructurado, de marzo a abril de 2020. El puntaje de conocimiento fue obtenido por el Análisis de Correspondencia Múltiple y la prueba de comparación de la mediana de Monte Carlo. Resultados: De los 32 participantes, ocho eran enfermeros y 24 técnicos de enfermería. La mayoría no recibió capacitación en hemoterapia 24 (75%) y no se sintió capacitada para actuar en una reacción transfusional inmediata 22 (68,8%). En cuanto al grado de conocimiento, encontramos que las enfermeras obtuvieron mejores puntajes que los técnicos (mediana 77,7 vs. 33,8; p=0,04). También se identificó que el grupo de edad de 18 a 40 años 62,7) tuvo un mejor resultado en relación al grupo de 40 años o más (mediana 62,7 vs. 25,5; p=0,01). Conclusión: Se verificó la importancia de que los profesionales de enfermería participen en capacitaciones sobre la administración de hemoderivados y hemoderivados, con el objetivo de mejorar la calidad de la atención y el mantenimiento del protocolo de seguridad del paciente. (AU)

Características clinicoepidemiológicas de pacientes tratados con hemoderivados en un hospital de Santiago de Cuba / Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients treated with blood-derivatives in a hospital from Santiago de Cuba

Introducción: El uso de hemoderivados es una práctica habitual en los hospitales y muy efectiva en determinadas situaciones clínicas. Objetivo: Caracterizar clínica y epidemiológicamente a pacientes tratados con hemoderivados en el Hospital Provincial Docente Dr. Joaquín Castillo Duany de Santiago de Cuba. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal de 394 pacientes que estuvieron ingresados en el Hospital Provincial Docente Dr. Joaquín Castillo Duany de Santiago de Cuba, desde enero hasta junio de 2018, que recibieron transfusión de hemoderivados. Los datos se obtuvieron de las historias clínicas y para el procesamiento se empleó el paquete estadístico SPSS, versión 23. Resultados: En la serie predominaron el sexo masculino (50,7 %), la transfusión de eritrocitos y los pacientes transfundidos con cifras de hemoglobina entre 70 y 89 g/L (47,7 %). En el Servicio de Cirugía General fue donde más se transfundió (43,2 %) y, en general, se detectaron múltiples deficiencias en las órdenes de transfusiones. Conclusiones: No existieron diferencias significativas en cuanto al sexo y los pacientes intervenidos quirúrgicamente fueron los que más recibieron este tratamiento. Hubo incumplimiento del protocolo hospitalario previsto y la omisión de datos en las órdenes de transfusiones afectó la calidad de la hemovigilancia.

Introduction: The use of blood-derivatives is an usual practice in hospitals and very effective in certain clinical situations. Objective: To characterize clinical and epidemiologically patients treated with blood-derivatives at Dr. Joaquín Castillo Duany Teaching Provincial Hospital in Santiago de Cuba. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional study of 394 patients that were admitted to Dr. Joaquín Castillo Duany Teaching Provincial Hospital and received blood-derivatives transfusion was carried out in Santiago de Cuba, from January to June, 2018. The data were obtained from the medical records and for its processing the SPSS statistical package, version 23 was used. Results: In the series there was a prevalence of the male sex (50.7 %), transfusion of erythrocytes and transfused patients with hemoglobin figures between 70 and 89 g/L (47.7 %). There were more transfusions in the General Surgery Service (43.2 %) and, in general, multiple deficiencies were detected in the orders of transfusions. Conclusions: As for sex there were no significant differences and patients surgically intervened were those that received this treatment more times. There was no fulfilment of the foreseen hospital protocol and the omission of data in the orders of transfusions affected the blood safety quality.

Protocolo de ayuno peritransfusional en enterocolitis necrotizante, en recién nacidos colombianos / Implementation of a peri-transfusion fasting protocol in necrotizing enterocolitis, in Colombian newborns

Objetivo: Determinar la diferencia de incidencia de enterocolitis necrotizante asociada a transfusión en recién nacidos pretérmino con y sin implementación de un protocolo de ayuno peritransfusional. Métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo. Se incluyeron todos los recién nacidos pretérmino que fueron transfundidos con unidad de glóbulos rojos entre julio 2015 y octubre 2016 en la unidad de recién nacidos un centro de tercer nivel de Colombia. El protocolo de ayuno peritransfusional se inició a partir de abril 2016. La enterocolitis necrotizante asociada a transfusión se definió como enterocolitis necrotizante presentada dentro de las 48 horas posteriores a la transfusión. Se analizaron variables demográficas, alimentación, número de transfusiones y variables asociadas a enterocolitis necrotizante. Resultados: Durante el tiempo de estudio, 148 recién nacidos prematuros necesitaron al menos una transfusión de glóbulos rojos que representaron 385 eventos de transfusión. Se informaron siete casos de enterocolitis necrotizante asociada a transfusión. La incidencia acumulada global fue 4,7 por ciento (3,6 por ciento con protocolo de ayuno peritransfusional y 6,3 por ciento sin protocolo), la tasa de incidencia global de enterocolitis necrotizante asociada a transfusión fue 18/1000 personas-transfusión (IC95 por ciento 7-37/1000 personas-transfusión), mayor en el grupo sin protocolo (28/1000 personas-transfusión) que en el grupo con protocolo (12/1000 personas-transfusión), pero sin significación estadística. Conclusiones: La implementación del protocolo de ayuno peritransfusional podría disminuir la incidencia y gravedad de la enterocolitis necrotizante asociada a transfusión. Se requieren estudios prospectivos para establecer la relación entre la alimentación enteral durante la transfusión y la enterocolitis necrotizante(AU)

Objective: Determine the difference in incidence of transfusion-associated necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm newborns with and without implementation of a peri-transfusion fasting protocol. Methods: Retrospective observational study. All preterm newborns that were transfused with red blood cell units during the period from July 2015 to October 2016 in the newborns´ unit at a third level of care center in Colombia were included. The peri-transfusion fasting protocol started on April 2016. Transfusion-associated necrotizing enterocolitis was defined as necrotizing enterocolitis presented within 48 hours after the transfusion. Demographic variables, feeding, number of transfusions and variables associated with necrotizing enterocolitis were analyzed. Results: During the study time, 148 premature newborns needed at least one transfusion of red blood cells that accounted for 385 transfusion events. Seven cases of transfusion-associated necrotizing enterocolitis were reported. The overall cumulative incidence was 4.7 percent (3.6 percent with peri-transfusion fasting protocol and 6.3 percent without protocol), the overall incidence rate of transfusion-associated necrotizing enterocolitis was 18/1000 people-transfusion (IC 95 percent 7-37/1000 people-transfusion); it was higher in the group without protocol (28/1000 people-transfusion) than in the group with protocol (12/1000 people-transfusion), but without statistical significance. Conclusions: Implementation of the peri-transfusion fasting protocol may decrease the incidence and severity of necrotizing enterocolitis associated with transfusion. Prospective studies are required to establish the relationship between enteral feeding during transfusion and necrotizing enterocolitis(AU)

Characteristics and quality of intra-operative cell salvage in paediatric scoliosis surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the haematological and microbiological characteristics of blood recovered by using a cell saver with a rigid centrifuge bowl (100ml) in paediatric scoliosis surgery and to determine whether it conforms to the standard expected in adult patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional, descriptive cohort study was performed on 24 consecutive red blood cell (RBC) units recovered from the surgical field and processed by a Haemolite® 2+ (Haemonetics Corp., Braintree, MA, EE. UU.) cell saver. Data were collected regarding age, weight, surgical approach (anterior or posterior), processed shed volume and volume of autologous RBC recovered, full blood count, and blood culture obtained from the RBC concentrate, and incidence of fever after reinfusion. RESULTS: The processed shed volume was very low (939±569ml) with high variability (coefficient of variation=0.6), unlike the recovered volume 129±50ml (coefficient of variation=0.38). A statistically significant correlation between the processed shed volume and recovered RBC concentrate haematocrit was found (Pearson, r=.659, P=.001). Haematological parameters in the recovered concentrate were: Hb 11±5.3g dl(-1); haematocrit: 32.1±15.4% (lower than expected); white cells 5.34±4.22×103 ul(-)1; platelets 37.88±23.5×103 ul(-1) (mean±SD). Blood culture was positive in the RBC concentrate recovered in 13 cases (54.2%) in which Staphylococcus coagulase (-) was isolated. CONCLUSIONS: Cell salvage machines with rigid centrifuge bowls (including paediatric small volume) do not obtain the expected haematocrit if low volumes are processed, and therefore they are not the best choice in paediatric surgery.

Implementation of a patient blood management program in pediatric scoliosis surgery.

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the implementation of a blood conservation program, and the adoption and progressive association of different methods, reduces transfusion requirements in pediatric patients undergoing scoliosis surgery of different origins. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Quasi-experimental, nonrandomized, descriptive study, approved by the Ethics Committee for Research of our institution. 50 pediatric patients (ASA I-III) aged 5 to 18 years, undergoing scoliosis surgery of any etiology by a single posterior or double approach (anterior and posterior) were included. A historical group with no alternatives to transfusion: Group No ahorro=15 patients (retrospective data collection) was compared with another 3 prospective study groups: Group HNA (acute normovolemic hemodilution)=9 patients; Group HNA+Rec (intraoperative blood salvage)=14 patients, and Group EPO (HNA+Rec+erythropoietin±preoperative donation)=12 patients; according with the implementation schedule of the transfusion alternatives in our institution. RESULTS: The rate of transfusion in different groups (No ahorro, HNA, HNA+Rec, EPO) was 100, 66, 57, and 0% of the patients, respectively, with a mean±SD of 3.40±1.59; 1.33±1.41; 1.43±1.50; 0±0 RBC units transfused per patient, respectively. Statistically significant differences (P<.001) were found in both the transfusion rate and number of RBC units. CONCLUSIONS: The application of a multimodal blood transfusion alternatives program, individualized for each pediatric patient undergoing scoliosis surgery can avoid transfusion in all cases.

Implantação da técnica de recuperação intraoperatória de sangue em serviço público de atendimento ao trauma / Implementation of intraoperative blood recovery technique in public trauma care service / Implementación de la técnica de recuperación de sangre intraoperatoria en el servicio público de atención traumatológica

Objetivo: relatar a vivência de uma equipe interdisciplinar na implantação da técnica de Recuperação Intraoperatória de Sangue em um serviço público de atendimento ao trauma. Método: estudo descritivo, do tipo relato de experiência, desenvolvido no Instituto Dr. José Frota, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brasil. Resultados: a técnica foi implantada no segundo semestre de 2015 no hospital de trauma, e a vivência permitiu listar as atividades da implantação da técnica, como a disponibilização do equipamento, materiais e profissional capacitado; aulas e palestras direcionadas ao corpo clínico e residentes de anestesiologia; identificação de cirurgias com benefício potencial; abordagem direta da enfermagem aos cirurgiões no centro cirúrgico; divulgação sistemática da disponibilidade do método e dos resultados obtidos no hospital, com o apoio da chefia cirúrgica; criação de estratégia de comunicação na interface entre enfermeiros, cirurgiões e anestesistas; e ampliação da equipe de enfermeiros para o atendimento 24 horas. Conclusão: a implantação da técnica de Recuperação Intraoperatória de Sangue no hospital de trauma permitiu identificar critérios para sua utilização e disponibilizar a estratégia de conservação de sangue para todos os procedimentos com benefício potencial, ampliando o uso de forma sistemática. (AU)

Objective: To report the experience of an interdisciplinary team in the implementation of the Intraoperative Blood Recovery technique in a public trauma care service. Methods: Descriptive study, of the experience report type, developed at Instituto Dr. José Frota, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil. Results: The technique was implemented in the second half of 2015 at the trauma hospital, and the experience allowed listing the activities of the technique's implementation, such as the availability of equipment, materials and trained professionals; classes and lectures aimed at clinical staff and anesthesiology residents; identification of surgeries with potential benefit; direct nursing approach to surgeons in the operating room; systematic dissemination of the availability of the method and the results obtained in the hospital, with the support of the surgical leadership; creation of a communication strategy at the interface between nurses, surgeons and anesthetists; and expansion of the team of nurses to provide 24-hour care. Conclusion: The implementation of the Intraoperative Blood Recovery technique in the trauma hospital allowed identifying criteria for its use and making this blood conservation strategy available for all procedures with potential benefit, expanding its use in a systematic way. (AU)

Objetivo: Reportar la experiencia de un equipo interdisciplinario en la implementación de la técnica de Recuperación Sanguínea Intraoperatoria en un servicio público de atención traumatológica. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo, del tipo informe de experiencia, desarrollado en el Instituto Dr. José Frota, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brasil. Resultados: La técnica fue implementada en el segundo semestre de 2015 en el hospital de trauma, y la experiencia permitió enumerar las actividades de implementación de la técnica, como la disponibilidad de equipos, materiales y profesionales capacitados; clases y conferencias dirigidas al personal clínico y residentes de anestesiología; identificación de cirugías con beneficio potencial; abordaje directo de enfermería a los cirujanos en el quirófano; difusión sistemática de la disponibilidad del método y los resultados obtenidos en el hospital, con el apoyo del liderazgo quirúrgico; creación de una estrategia de comunicación en la interfaz entre enfermeras, cirujanos y anestesistas; y ampliación del equipo de enfermeras para brindar atención las 24 horas. Conclusión: A implantação da técnica de RIOS no hospital de trauma permitiu identificar criterios para su utilización y disponibilidad es una estrategia de conservación de sangue para todos los procedimientos con beneficio potencial, ampliando o uso de forma sistemática. (AU)

Renormalization of the nurses' work in hemotherapy: between prescription and reality / Renormalización del trabajo del enfermero en hemoterapia: entre lo prescrito y lo real / Renormalização do trabalho do enfermeiro em hemoterapia: entre o prescrito e o real

ABSTRACT Objective: to characterize the work process of nurses in hemotherapy in terms of prescribed procedures, antecedent norms and real work. Method: a qualitative study, carried out from February to December 2017, in a blood center in the North of the country, involving a sample of twenty-two nurses. Methodological triangulation with data collected through semi-structured interviews, institutional documents and protocols, participant observation and notes in a field diary were used. For data treatment and analysis, the resources of the Atlas.ti 8.2.1 software (Qualitative Research and Solutions) and the fundamentals of Historical Dialectical Materialism and Ergology were used. Results: the results showed that nurses work in different activities, recreating work according to the needs of the service. The assistance, educational and managerial work permeates the activities developed and is carried out in accordance with the legislation, seeking to guarantee the donor's health, the quality of the products and transfusion safety. Conclusion: the work situations of these professionals indicate that its uses are present in their daily lives, promoting dynamism between the previous norms and the renormalizations.

RESUMEN Objetivo: caracterizar el proceso de trabajo del enfermero en hemoterapia en relación a procedimientos prescritos, normas antecedentes y trabajo real. Método: estudio cualitativo, realizado de febrero a diciembre de 2017, en un banco de sangre de la región norte del país, con una muestra compuesta de veintidós enfermeros. Se utilizó triangulación metodológica con datos recolectados a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas, documentos y protocolos institucionales, observación participante y notas en un diario de campo. Para el tratamiento y análisis de los datos se utilizaron los recursos del software Atlas.ti 8.2.1 (Qualitative Research and Solutions) y los fundamentos del Materialismo Histórico Dialéctico y la Ergología. Resultados: los resultados mostraron que los enfermeros trabajan en diferentes actividades y recrean el trabajo de acuerdo a las necesidades del servicio. La labor asistencial, educativa y gerencial atraviesa las actividades desarrolladas y se lleva a cabo de conformidad con la legislación, a fin de garantizar la salud del donante, la calidad de los productos y la seguridad transfusional. Conclusión: la situación laboral de estos profesionales indica que los usos están presentes en su cotidianidad, y promueven el dinamismo entre las normas antecedentes y las renormalizaciones.

RESUMO Objetivo: caracterizar o processo de trabalho dos enfermeiros na hemoterapia quanto aos procedimentos prescritos, às normas antecedentes e ao trabalho real. Método: estudo qualitativo, realizado no período de fevereiro a dezembro de 2017, em um hemocentro na região norte do país, envolvendo uma amostra de vinte e dois enfermeiros. Foi utilizada a triangulação metodológica com dados colhidos através de entrevista semiestruturada, documentos e protocolos institucionais, observação participante e anotações em diário de campo. Para o tratamento e a análise dos dados, foram usados os recursos do software Atlas.ti 8.2.1 (Qualitative Research and Solutions) e os fundamentos do Materialismo Histórico-dialético e da Ergologia. Resultados: os resultados evidenciaram que os enfermeiros atuam em diferentes atividades, recriando o trabalho de acordo com as necessidades do serviço. O trabalho assistencial, educativo e gerencial permeia as atividades desenvolvidas e é realizado de acordo com as legislações, buscando garantir a saúde do doador, a qualidade dos produtos e a segurança transfusional. Conclusão: as situações de trabalho desses profissionais apontam que os usos de si se fazem presentes no seu cotidiano, promovendo o dinamismo entre as normas antecedentes e as renormalizações.