Transfusion of 1 and 2 Units of Red Blood Cells Is Associated With Increased Morbidity and Mortality

Transfusion of as little as 1 or 2 units of RBCs is common and is significantly associated with increased morbidity and mortality after on-pump CABG. The relationship persists after adjustment for preoperative risk factors. These results suggest that aggressive attempts at blood conservation and avoidance of even small amounts of RBC transfusion may improve outcomes after CABG.