Preoperative anaemia and thrombocytopenia are associated with venous thromboembolism complications after colorectal resection

Abstract Background Earlier studies have shown that abnormal levels of haemoglobin and platelets may be associated with worse post‐operative outcomes. We aim to compare the rates of venous thromboembolism (VTE), anastomotic leak and other complications in patients post‐colorectal resection with normal and abnormal levels of haemoglobin and platelets. Methods We performed a retrospective review of 1610 patients from July 2010 to June 2015 in a single colorectal unit. Our primary outcome was the rate of VTE and anastomotic leak in anaemic and thrombocytopenic patients. Secondary outcomes included length of stay, 30‐day mortality, return to theatre, transfusion rates and Clavien–Dindo classification complications. Results VTE complications were more common in anaemic patients, and this difference became more pronounced with the severity of anaemia. Other complications such as length of stay >2 weeks occurred more frequently in anaemic and thrombocytopenic patients. A trend towards higher rates of 30‐day mortality and anastomotic leak was noted in patients with anaemia and thrombocytopenia. Conclusion Anaemia and thrombocytopenia are associated with worse outcomes including length of stay, anastomotic leak, VTE and 30‐day mortality.