Despite known limitations of pooled observational analyses, these results suggest that very-short-term perioperative administration of IV iron, with or without rHuEPO, in major lower limb orthopedic procedures is associated with reduced ABT rates and LHS, without increasing postoperative morbidity or mortality.

The administration of IV iron sucrose seems to reduce ABT requirements in patients with PHF and is associated to lower postoperative morbidity. The possible mechanisms involved in these effects are discussed.