Blood Transfusions and Postoperative Infections in Esophageal Surgery
Author Information
Author(s): Rovera Francesca, Dionigi Gianlorenzo, Boni Luigi, Imperatori Andrea, Tabacchi Alessandra, Carcano Giulio, Diurni Mario, Dionigi Renzo
Primary Institution: Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
Hypothesis
Does perioperative blood transfusion increase the risk of postoperative infections in patients undergoing esophageal resection for cancer?
Conclusion
Blood transfusions independently affected the incidence of wound infections in patients who underwent esophageal resection for primary cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- 48% of patients received blood transfusions, with 51% of them developing infections.
- Wound infections were significantly associated with blood transfusions (p = 0.02).
- The study monitored various risk factors for infections in patients undergoing surgery.
Takeaway
Giving blood transfusions during surgery can lead to more infections afterward, especially in the wounds.
Methodology
A prospective study was conducted on 110 patients undergoing esophageal resection, recording various risk factors and monitoring for infections post-surgery.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to non-randomized study design and confounding factors related to patient health.
Limitations
The study may not account for all confounding variables influencing infection rates.
Participant Demographics
Average age was 62 years, with 92 males and 18 females.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Statistical Significance
p = 0.02
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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