Surgery and transfusion

Even though blood transfusion saves thousands of lives worldwide, it causes complications in some patients, and must therefore be correctly administered. As there is no universally accepted consensus on blood transfusion in surgical patients, we have reviewed the latest studies and gathered the best available evidence on blood management strategies. In this study, we discuss indicators for transfusion of erythrocytes and other blood products, haemostatic agents for cardiothoracic and orthopaedic interventions where it is imperative to regulate blood loss, and alternatives in specific situations such as Jehovah's Witnesses patients. Finally, we put forward an algorithm for the preoperative management of surgery patients with low haemoglobin levels.