
Effects of Albumin and Crystalloid Priming Strategies on Red Blood Cell Transfusions in On-Pump Cardiac Surgery: A Network Meta-Analysis
In on-pump cardiac surgery, a network meta-analysis revealed that crystalloid priming strategies are associated with fewer perioperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusions compared to albumin priming, although the difference in postoperative blood loss between the two was not statistically significant. The study suggests that while albumin priming might reduce postoperative blood loss, its use leads to more RBC transfusions and a higher blood management burden, indicating the need for careful consideration of its application in this context.