The recently established Bloodless Cardiac Surgery Program draws on UPMC's years of experience performing heart valve replacement and coronary artery bypass procedures, as well as organ transplants, without the use of donated blood. Jehovah's Witnesses constitute an important population of patients who refuse transfusion for religious reasons. However, there may be a significant number of patients who delay or even decline surgery because of concerns about the blood supply. Blood loss is reduced both during and after surgery using various techniques that allow patients to retain their own blood. Several weeks before surgery, patients are injected three times a week with epogen, a genetically engineered drug that stimulates production of red blood cells in bone marrow.
Surgeons also use laser coagulators to halt capillary bleeding.
Once the surgery is completed, the patient must remain in the operating room for an additional 30 to 45 minutes to be sure there is proper blood coagulation. Earliest info on new businesses, homeowners Sales Prospecting Center Real info, real opportunities. HirePittsburgh Fill an opening, find a job Internet Directory Local businesses on the web Legal Center Hundreds of business legal tools Office Products Special deals on equipment, supplies.