Abstract

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.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.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.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.

View details for DOI 10.1016/j.ijoa.2009.02.005

View details for Web of Science ID 000271135300002

View details for PubMedID 19628384