We have carried out an observational study to determine the pre-operative risk factors for transfusion in patients undergoing implantation of a hip prosthesis.
47 patients were recruited to the study. The following parameters were recorded: peri-operative transfusions, infusions, blood and secretion losses, re-transfusions and other operative variables. In addition, patient-specific data (age, body mass index, co-existing conditions, haemoglobin) were determined. The data were grouped by transfusions and re-transfusions and submitted to statistical analysis.
The transfusion incidence in knee endoprosthesis implantation procedures was low at 25.5 %. Age above 74 years, ASA 3 and 4 were identified as significant risk factors for transfusion. If the significant risk groups identified in this study are left aside, a transfusion incidence of 5.6 % is found.
For the implantation of an artificial hip joint, we recommend autologous blood donation only for patients with ASA 3. For other patients it is recommended that homologous banked blood (2 units of cross-matched concentrated red cells) be held in readiness.