Transfusion and management of surgical patients with hematologic disorders.

Clinical trials have provided guidance in developing triggers for transfusing in the hemodynamically stable patient. These studies have identified that improved outcomes can be obtained in the massively transfused patient when platelets and fresh frozen plasma are transfused with packed red blood cells. Studies that characterize the complications of transfusions, such as transfusion-related acute lung injury and poor cancer-related outcomes, are discussed. Emerging data that characterize the risk factors associated with transfusion-related acute lung injury and suggest metastasis and local recurrence occur at a higher rate in the transfused patient are discussed. Hematologic disorders commonly encountered by surgeons are discussed.