Intra- and Postoperative Blood Loss and Transfusion Requirements in Children Undergoing Craniofacial Surgery

J Craniofac Surg. 2019 Sep;30(6):1798-1801. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000005492.

Abstract

Pediatric craniosynostosis (CS) surgery is frequently associated with extensive blood loss and transfusion requirements. The aim of the study was to evaluate the authors' institutional procedure with 2-surgeon approach and early transfusion strategy on blood loss and blood product transfusions in children undergoing craniofacial surgery. A retrospective analysis of medical records was performed of pediatric CS corrections during a 15-year period. Primary endpoint was blood loss and transfusion requirement during and the following 24 hours postoperatively. Linear regression analyses were performed of associations between intra and- postoperative blood loss and blood loss and weight. A total of 276 children (median 9 months) were included. Intraoperative blood loss was 22 mL/kg (14-33 mL/kg) and postoperatively 27 mL/kg (18-37 mL/kg), with no change during the study period. Intraoperative transfusions of red blood cell and plasma were 16 mL/kg (10-24 mL/kg) and postoperative 14 mL/kg (9-21 mL/kg). Postoperative red blood cell and plasma transfusions were 2 mL/kg (0-6 mL/kg) and of 0 mL/kg, respectively. Craniosynostosis type was related to blood loss (P < 0.001). There was an association between intraoperative and postoperative blood loss (P = 0.012) and intra- and postoperative blood loss and weight (P = 0.002, P = < 0.001). Duration of surgery was 110 minutes (range 60-300 minutes).Pediatric CS surgery is associated with substantial intra- and postoperative blood loss and transfusion requirements, which did not change over a 15-year period. Blood loss was associated with type of CS. Intraoperative blood loss was correlated to postoperative blood loss and body weight.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Blood Loss, Surgical
  • Blood Transfusion*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Craniosynostoses / surgery
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Postoperative Hemorrhage*
  • Retrospective Studies