| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5731022 | The American Journal of Surgery | 2017 | 6 Pages |
ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of blood transfusions on the risk of anastomotic leakage (AL) in patients with gastro-esophageal-junction (GEJ) cancer.BackgroundThe incidence of GEJ cancer is increasing in the western world. Surgery is the curative treatment of choice. AL increases mortality and morbidity, and increases the risk cancer reoccurrence. In colo-rectal surgery a relation between AL and blood transfusions have been demonstrated.MethodThe risk of AL in relation to blood transfusions was investigated in a cohort study. 253 consecutive patients undergoing surgery for GEJ cancer was included. Data was based on a prospective maintained database and analyzed using logistic regressions models adjusting for multiple confounders.ResultsWe found an increased risk of AL when blood was transfused OR: 3.47, (1.51; 7.99). This relation was consistent after adjustment for multiple confounders OR: 4.60, (1.29; 16.4). Increasing number of blood units did not increase risk of AL further.ConclusionWe present data demonstrating a strong correlation between receiving blood transfusions and the risk of AL after surgery in GEJ cancers patients.
