Vox sanguinis
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Patients undergoing surgery for hip fracture (HF) often receive perioperative allogeneic blood transfusions (ABT) to avoid anaemia. However, concerns about the adverse effects of ABT have prompted the review of transfusion practice and the search for a safer treatment of perioperative anaemia. ⋯ The blood-saving protocol implemented seems to reduce ABT requirements in patients with HF, and is associated with a lower postoperative morbidity. The possible mechanisms involved in these effects are discussed.