Preoperative blood transfusion associated with increased length of stay and increased postoperative complications after revision total knee arthroplasty.

Overview

Currently, the impact of preoperative transfusion on postoperative morbidity following revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is unknown. A retrospective cohort study using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was performed and included patients who underwent revision TKAs. Postoperative complications were analyzed. A total of 6,849 patients were included. Patients who received a preoperative blood transfusion were found to have an increased risk of developing 3 of 17 adverse events. Although overall complication rates remain relatively low, orthopedic surgeons should counsel their patients on the implications of preoperative blood transfusions on post-operative outcomes.