Impact of Preoperative Erythropoietin on Allogeneic Blood Transfusions in Surgical Patients: Results From a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background: Erythropoietic-stimulating agents such as erythropoietin have been used as part of patient blood management programs to reduce or even avoid the use of allogeneic blood transfusions. We review the literature to evaluate the effect of preoperative erythropoietin use on the risk of exposure to perioperative allogeneic blood transfusions.

Methods: The study involved a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluating the use of preoperative erythropoietin.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacements: Current Trends and Future Directions.

Since the 1960s when the first aortic surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) was performed, continuous growth in the field of valvular technology has occurred. Although SAVR remains a lifesaving procedure, minimally invasive transcatheter aortic valve replacement has revolutionized and expanded aortic valve replacement to patients who were not previously SAVR candidates, increasing their quality of life and survival. Since its introduction in the United States in 2011, the technology and practice have rapidly expanded.