Outcome measurements
The primary outcomes consisted of Hb levels, allogeneic transfusion rate
and blood loss (including intraoperative and total blood loss), of which
blood loss was calculated according to the formula by Nadler et al and
Gross plus the volume transfused (15, 16). Secondary outcomes included
reticulocyte count and complications, including DVT, PE and other
adverse effects related to rhEPO (nausea, fever, headache, etc.).