Hemodynamics, fluids & transfusion
The use of iron after surgery: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors' conclusion
Our meta-analysis of iron therapy for treating anaemia after major surgery found that intravenous iron administered within 30 days of surgery increased haemoglobin levels effectively, whereas oral iron showed no benefit.
Study context
- Population
- Adults undergoing elective surgery with postoperative anaemia
- Participants
- 1,865 adults · 15 RCTs
- Comparison
- Postoperative IV or oral iron vs control
- Outcome
- Haemoglobin level
- Follow-up
- End of study
Methodological detailsDatabases searched from inception to 6 April 2023, 7 studies IV iron, 6 oral iron, 2 IV vs oral iron
- Databases searched from inception to 6 April 2023
- 7 studies IV iron, 6 oral iron, 2 IV vs oral iron
Pooled result
As reported in the abstract
Each group vs controlMD, g.l-1 (95% CI)P value
Intravenous ironI2 = 0%
4.51(2.63–6.38)
P < 0.01Oral ironI2 = 23%
0.61(−2.79-4.01)
P = 0.66Further pooled results
Postoperative Hb, orthopaedic surgery (subgroup)
- Patients after orthopaedic surgery: the group with the greatest benefit (MD, g.l-1)
- 3.63
- 95%CI 0.78-6.47
- I2 = 20%
- p = 0.02
Quality of life, blood transfusion requirements, adverse events, readmission, mortality
- No significant differences in the secondary outcomes
Original publication
The use of iron after surgery: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Anaesthesia. Published 24 March 2025. doi:10.
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