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Blood transfusions linked to more complications in post-bariatric surgery abdominoplasty

Patients requiring blood transfusions in post-bariatric surgery abdominoplasty experience higher complication rates, longer hospital stays and a higher total cost, according to research in the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal.

Out of 20,130 post-bariatric surgery patients who underwent abdominoplasty, 1,871 patients received a blood transfusion, for a rate of 9.3%.

These patients experienced a higher complication rate: 10.1% vs. 4.8% among those who did not receive a blood transfusion. Longer hospital stays and higher hospital charges also resulted from the blood transfusions.

The highest rate of blood transfusions was 25.6% among patients with chronic anemia.

Researchers identified the following independent risk factors for blood transfusions: deficiency anemia, congestive heart failure, concurrent breast reduction, diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, black race, Hispanic race and female sex.

In this patient population, the researchers recommend aggressive treatment of anemia and maximizing treatment of hyperglycemia, congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease prior to abdominoplasty.

Disclosures: The researchers reported no relevant financial disclosures.