Retrospective analysis of transfusion outcomes in pregnant patients at a tertiary obstetric center.
BACKGROUND
The decision to use red blood cell transfusion and/or blood products (fresh frozen plasma, platelets, cryoprecipitate) to manage obstetric hemorrhage or treat postpartum anemia is often made empirically by physicians. We performed a retrospective study to review transfusion outcomes in pregnant and postpartum patients at a large obstetric center.


METHODS
A retrospective, observational study was performed of obstetric in-patients who received red blood cell transfusion and/or blood products over a one-year period. Data abstracted included transfusion data, pre-transfusion hemoglobin (Hb) and lowest recorded (nadir) Hb, and maternal and neonatal outcomes.


RESULTS
During the study period, 74 patients received transfusion therapy (1.4%). Pre-transfusion and nadir Hb values were 7.6 g/dL and 7.0 g/dL respectively. Median [IQR] total red blood cells transfused were 2 units [2-3], with 41 (55%) patients receiving 1-2 units. Based on chart review, no specific indications for transfusion were identified in 25 patients (34%), and 13 patients (18%) had undetected postpartum anemia (Hb values <8.2 g/dL) at least 24h after delivery.


CONCLUSIONS
More formal assessment and documentation of the etiologic factors associated with transfusion management in pregnant patients is advised. In addition, the identification and management of undetected postpartum anemia is underappreciated.
Butwick
A J
AJ
Department of Anesthesiology (MC: 5640), 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford University School ofMedicine, Stanford, California 94305, USA. ajbut@stanford.edu
Aleshi
P
P
Fontaine
M
M
Riley
E T
ET
Goodnough
L T
LT
D000136:Acid-Base Equilibrium; D000328:Adult; D000740:Anemia / Q000628:therapy; D001034:Apgar Score; D001772:Blood Cell Count; D001780:Blood Coagulation Tests; D015331:Cohort Studies; D017707:Erythrocyte Transfusion; D005260:Female; D006454:Hemoglobins / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D006473:Postpartum Hemorrhage / Q000097:blood / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D049590:Postpartum Period; D011247:Pregnancy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D065227:Transfusion Reaction; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D006454:Hemoglobins