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.).