Arch Surg Chicago
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Blood components undergo changes during storage that may affect the recipient, including the release of bioactive agents, with significant immune consequences. We hypothesized that transfusion of old blood increases infection risk in severely injured patients. ⋯ Transfusion of old blood is associated with increased infection after major injury. Other options, such as leukocyte-depleted blood or blood substitutes, may be more appropriate in the early resuscitation of trauma patients requiring transfusion.
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Despite a paucity of validation, the Ranson score is still the most popular method for gauging the severity of pancreatitis. ⋯ The Ranson score remains a valid predictor of outcomes in patients with SAP, and individual Ranson variables determined 48 hours after hospital admission predicted adverse outcomes more accurately than early Ranson variables in patients with SAP.
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Patients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhagic injuries (IHIs) are at high risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE). The safety of early anticoagulation for IHI has not been established. ⋯ Enoxaparin can be safely used for VTE prophylaxis in trauma patients with IHI when started 24 hours after hospital admission or after craniotomy.