Predictors of perioperative blood transfusion and intraoperative blood loss in thoracolumbar tuberculosis

Abstract

Background. During surgery for thoracic and lumbar tuberculosis infection, patients can lose a significant amount of blood and thus require a perioperative blood transfusion. However, the risk factors for increased intraoperative blood loss and perioperative blood transfusion have yet to be identified. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the predictors of perioperative blood transfusion and intraoperative blood loss in thoracolumbar tuberculosis. Methods. From 2008 to 2018, 336 patients who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. The predictors of allogenic blood transfusion were identified using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Univariate and multivariate linear regressions were conducted to investigate the risk factors for intraoperative blood loss. The predictors of high levels of intraoperative blood loss were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression analysis.Results. Altogether, 336 adult patients with thoracic and lumbar tuberculosis were included in this study. The mean age of patients was 49.6 ± 15.5 years old (range 14-85). Our data revealed significant relationships between blood transfusions and female gender, BMI, vertebral collapse/kyphosis and intraoperative blood loss. Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that BMI, levels of instrumentation, surgical approach and operative time were independent risk factors for intraoperative blood loss. Specifically, a lower BMI, decreased preoperative hemoglobin levels, four or more levels of instrumentation, a combined surgical approach and a prolonged operative time were identified as risk factors for high levels of intraoperative blood loss.Conclusions. This study identified some clinical predictors of perioperative blood transfusion and intraoperative blood loss in patients undergoing thoracic and lumbar tuberculosis surgery. These results may contribute to the planning of preoperative blood transfusions and help to minimize intra- or postoperative complications. Level of evidenceLevel IV, retrospective case series.