Heart surgery patients may need fewer transfusions with EPO and iron combo

NCT ID NCT04141631

Completed Disease control Sponsor: University Hospital, Montpellier Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether giving erythropoietin (EPO) and an iron injection before heart surgery could lower the number of patients needing blood transfusions. 128 adults scheduled for heart surgery who were at high risk of transfusion took part. The approach aimed to boost hemoglobin levels and guide transfusions using a measure of oxygen in the blood.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: erythropoietin (EPO) and ferric carboxymaltose (iron injection)
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could reduce the need for blood transfusions in heart surgery patients, lowering risks and costs.
What could go wrong: This is a completed study with 128 patients, so results are limited. The strategy may not work for all patients or settings, and there are risks like allergic reactions to the drugs.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CARDIAC SURGERY PERIOPERATIVE ANEMIA TRANSFUSION

Contacts and locations

Locations

DEpartement d'anesthésie et réanimation D - Arnaud de Villeneuve

Montpellier, 34295, France

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