Transfusion issues in surgery

Transfusion, just as any other medical intervention has both benefits and risks, which should be balanced for each patient so that the benefits outweigh the risks. Blood and its products are considered drugs and hence careful consideration of therapy is essential to minimize the potential adverse reactions. Moreover, alternative modes of treatment should be considered and final decision to transfuse should be based on individual patient evaluation. Reviews of blood transfusion practices have found that most surgical procedures do not require blood transfusion. This review is focused on the transfusion needs of the surgical patients.