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Surgery - Preoperative management of anemia
Definition: Hb <13g />L for both sexes.
Classification Traditionally, MCV and MCH are used to determine potential causes. Current guidelines for diagnosis Iron and haematinic deficiency, as well as blood loss, are common and treatable issues that require proper investigation.
Postpone major elective surgery (with estimated blood loss >500mL) until correctable causes of anaemia are identified and addressed. Current guidelines Serum ferritin levels below 30 micrograms/L are the most sensitive and specific test for determining absolute iron deficient anaemia. In cases of inflammation (CRP >5 and TSAT <20%), a serum ferritin level of <100 micrograms /> indicates iron deficiency anemia. The prevalence and effects of perioperative anemia Large multicenter studies and worldwide registry databases show that perioperative anemia is widespread in surgical patients (30-35% prevalence) and related with morbidity and mortality, regardless of severity. When paired with additional perioperative risk factors, results worsen by a ratio of 3.5–7.
Assessment and management of anemia
Patients should expect to wait up to 2 months for elective surgery, giving them enough time to check and rectify anemia. If there is a >10% chance of transfusion or >500mL of blood loss, lab tests should be performed immediately to check haematinics. • If Hb is <13g />L, identify possible causes and correctable factors. Examine both visible and hidden indications of blood loss. Some patients may require additional testing, such as radiographic imaging or endoscopic evaluation. • If ferritin is <20 micrograms /> and there is no inflammation (CRP/TSAT normal), or if ferritin is <100 micrograms /> with CRP >5 and/or TSAT <20%, start preoperative iron replacement treatment.< />pan>
• If iron replacement therapy is started, non-urgent surgeries should be postponed until the goal Hb is reached.
Treatment Options for Correcting Anaemia
Preoperative anemia. • B12 and folate deficiencies can be rectified with IM or PO supplements for 2-3 weeks in 712% of patients undergoing surgery. • Iron deficiency anaemia can frequently coexist. The severity, expected malabsorption, and convenience of administration will determine whether to use PO or IM supplements for each patient. 2 To treat iron deficiency anaemia, administer 400-600mg/day of PO ferrous sulfate for 6-8 weeks.
• IV iron therapy is highly effective for urgent surgery and has no ill effects when compared to PO therapy or placebo. Administering 1000- 1500mg IV over an hour can result in a peak rise in Hb over 1-3 weeks. • Patients with iron deficiency (ferritin >100 micrograms/L) who are still anaemic can get subcutaneous (SC) erythropoietin (EPO) at a dose of 300-600mg once weekly for 4 weeks. 2 Many hospitals have perioperative clinics administered by surgical, anesthetic, and critical care teams. Local perioperative anaemia routes are a helpful resource. Post-operative anemia • Check patients' post-operative hemoglobin levels with HemoCue® during recovery or upon return to the ward. Formal FBC can typically be performed on the first day following surgery. • If a patient experiences moderate to substantial blood loss during surgery and is predicted to bleed post-operatively due to coagulopathy or surgical causes, they should be observed in a suitable setting by a senior clinician. Early detection of clinical deterioration by the National Early Warning Score (NEWS) is crucial for effective patient care.
• According to NICE guidelines, most patients should have a transfusion threshold of <7g />L for post-operative anemia, with a Hb target of 7-9g/dL after transfusion, except for extensive hemorrhage and acute coronary syndrome (target 8-10g/dL). • Regular transfusions are required due to chronic anemia. Patients having persistent post-operative blood loss should be evaluated periodically and promptly. The senior surgeon should be informed. Critical care outreach teams can provide crucial assistance.
Mean Cell Volume -Microcytic
Causes - iron deficiency anemia,Thalassemia, chronic Disease
Mean Cell Hemoglobin – Hypochromic

Mean Cell Volume – Normocytic
Causes - Acute blood loss and chronic Disease
Mean Cell Hemoglobin – Normochromic

Mean Cell Volume – Macrocytic
Causes – alcohol dependence, B12/folate deficiency, hypothyroidism, pregnancy, hemolysis
Mean Cell Hemoglobin - Normochromic



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