eP164 Group & Saves in Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomies

Abstract Aim To find out if G&S prior to elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies are necessary, in order to save hospital time and costs. Methods Retrospective study over 6 months period. Data collected about patients at North Middlesex Hospital who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies - Hb pre and post procedure, complications, anticoagulation status, transfusion status. Results 98.43% of patients did not require a blood transfusion at any point during admission for surgery. 1 patient received a peri-operative transfusion - this was a high risk patient due to co-morbidities and a recent diagnosis of cancer. 1 patient required a post-operative transfusion days after the procedure - another G&S was sent for them, making the pre-op G&S redundant. Conclusion Pre-OP G&S is not necessary for all patients and can be omitted. Team can identify patients at high risk of bleeding and send G&S for such patients only. This would greatly reduce hospital costs and time. The use of prophylactic tranexamic acid can also be explored for these patients.