Hemorrhagic Risk and Transfusion Practice Evaluation in Elective Head, Neck and Spine Surgery.

During elective surgery, the decision to transfuse a patient to correct anemia or an unstable hemodynamic state is often determined on a case by case basis according to personal and hospital transfusion practice. There is wide variability in these practices. Literature suggests that a restrictive transfusion practice is equivalent, if not better, than a liberal practice in terms of morbidity and mortality. However, these data may not be generalizable to specific head, neck, and spine surgeries.

At the head and neck department of Montpellier University Hospital, the hemorrhagic risk has not been precisely measured for certain surgical procedures. Thus hemorrhagic risk tends to be overestimated and unnecessary blood tests tend to be ordered.

In our single center, retrospective, observational study the investigators will determine the hemorrhagic risk related to each elective surgical procedure performed in our center. The investigators will also analyze the transfusion triggers used, and will compare them to national and international recommendations. The results of this study will inform transfusion and laboratory practice for patients undergoing head, neck, or spine surgery.