The association between platelet transfusion and adverse outcomes after coronary artery bypass surgery

OBJECTIVES: Previous research suggests that platelet transfusion is associated with adverse events after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The aim of the current analysis was to verify this hypothesis.

METHODS: Data from 6745 consecutive patients undergoing CABG from 2006 through 2012 were collected. Patients receiving platelet transfusions intraoperatively or postoperatively in the intensive care unit were compared with control patients. To adjust for possible confounders, propensity score matching and conditional regression analyses were performed. Short-term outcomes were 30-day mortality, in-hospital myocardial infarction and stroke. Mid-term outcomes were 6-month mortality, and need for coronary angiography or repeat coronary revascularization within 6 months after surgery. Data were retrieved from the Western Denmark Heart Registry.

RESULTS: Using propensity scores, 982 patients exposed to platelets were matched with 982 control patients. Platelet transfusion was associated with a higher rate of postoperative coronary angiography (adjusted odds ratio 2.34, 95% confidence interval 1.15-4.76). There was no significant association between platelet transfusion and postoperative mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke and need for repeat coronary revascularization.

CONCLUSIONS: Platelet transfusion at the time of CABG is not associated with increased postoperative mortality, in-hospital myocardial infarction, stroke or need for repeat coronary revascularization.