Comparative analysis of hidden blood loss in total knee arthroplasty

Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate the influential factors for hidden blood loss after a total knee arthroplasty and their relationship with the total blood loss. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a crucial treatment of late-stage knee osteoarthritis. Measured blood loss is significantly inconsistent with the hemoglobin (HB) drop postoperatively. Fifty-four patients, 20 males and 34 females, were retrospectively analyzed. The preoperative blood loss and therefore the hidden blood loss following TKA were calculated by the Gross formula. The typical perioperative blood loss was found to be 780±220 ml and therefore the average hidden blood loss was 280±180 ml. No significant differences were found in hidden blood loss for males compared to females. Hidden blood loss may not be reduced by hemostasis during operation with a deflated tourniquet.