Preoperative anaemia is common in surgery, with a prevalence between 10 and 50 %, and is an independent risk factor for morbidity and mortality. Due to the potential risk of additional blood loss, anaemia represents a serious disease condition within the surgical field. Especially patients undergoing major elective surgery are at risk of substantial blood loss. Anaemia is mostly the result of an inadequate erythropoiesis due to iron deficiency, lack of vitamin B12 or folate, and bone marrow diseases. Among the elderly, renal disease and chronic inflammation account for approximately one-third of all anaemia incidences. The aim of this study is to provide detailed data about the prevalence of preoperative deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12 and/or folate and the presence of underlying renal or chronic diseases in patients undergoing major surgery. Results will facilitate design of supplementation strategies to improve haemoglobin level before surgery.
Preoperative anaemia is common in surgery, with a prevalence between 10 and 50 %, and is an independent risk factor for morbidity and mortality.~Anaemia is mostly the result of an inadequate erythropoiesis due to iron deficiency, lack of vitamin B12 or folate, and bone marrow diseases. Among the elderly, renal disease and chronic inflammation account for approximately one-third of all anaemia incidences. The aim of this study is to provide detailed data about the prevalence of preoperative deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12 and/or folate and the presence of underlying renal or chronic diseases in patients undergoing major surgery.