Comparison of Hematocrit Change in Preterm Neonates with Birth Weight Based Versus Formula Based Packed Red Blood Cell Transfusion: A Randomized Control Trial

AbstractConventionally the packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion volume given to neonates is 10  ml/kg to 20 ml/kg. The weight-based formulae underestimate the volume of PRBC required to achieve a target hematocrit (Hct) in preterm neonates. The study was done to compare the rise in Hct after transfusing PRBC volume calculated either based on body weight or using formula considering Hct of b lood bag and Hct of preterm neonates. This prospective study included a total of 68 preterm neonates requiring transfusion for the first time having ≤ 34 weeks of gestational age. Neonates were randomized using block randomization, to receive 15 ml/kg of PRBC transfusion (group A) or transf usion based on the formula (group B). The primary outcome of interest was post-transfusion rise in hematocrit. The secondary outcome was the effect of transfusion on neonatal morbidities in terms of retinopathy of prematurity, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing ente rocolitis, and death. Baseline variables (birth weight, gestation age, APGAR score and score of neonatal acute physiology) pre-transfusion hemodynamics and hematocrit of the bag were comparable in both groups. The mean volume of PRBC in group A was 18.8 ± 4.9 ml, whereas in group B it was 29.6  ± 7.3 ml, p = 0.0001. Group B transfusions had a statistically significant change in 24 h post-transfusion hematocrit. Secondary outcomes were comparable in two groups. Post transfusion...
Source: Indian Journal of Hematology and Blood Transfusion - Category: Hematology Source Type: research