O092 Fibrin-based haemostatic agents for reducing blood loss in adult liver resection: a meta-analysis

Abstract Introduction Liver resection can be associated with significant perioperative bleeding. Fibrin based haemostatic agents (FBHAs) are bioabsorbable topical haemostatic agents used to enhance haemostasis and reduce blood loss. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis, comparing FBHAs with the standard of care and no topical application (SoC), and comparing FBHAs with non-fibrin-based haemostatic agents (NFHAs) to evaluate their efficacy in reducing blood loss and improving perioperative outcomes. Method The Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Specialised Register was searched to identify (quasi-) RCTs to include in our meta-analysis. Two authors independently reviewed each study. Primary outcomes were haemostatic efficacy (defined as haemostasis within 4 or 5 minutes post application), adverse events and perioperative mortality (within 30-days of surgery). Statistical analyses were performed using the random effects model and results expressed as odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals. Result Twenty-seven RCTs (3736 participants) were included in our analysis. FBHAs were found to have superior haemostatic efficacy compared to NFHAs (OR 4.03; 1.73–9.36, p=0.001), and were superior to SoC (OR 13.59; 4.06–45.47, p<0.0001). Incidence of adverse events and perioperative mortality was no different when comparing FBHAs with SoC or NFHAs. No differences were detected when testing for post-operative bile leakage, intra-abdominal collections, volume of abdominal drain output, post-operative transfusion requirements, reoperation rates and length of stay (all p>0.05). Conclusion FBHAs appear superior to SoC and NFHAs in achieving haemostasis within 4–5 minutes post-application, however this does not translate into improved post-operative outcomes. FBHAs are not justified for routine use based on the available evidence.