257 The Safety and Efficacy of Red Cell Transfusions In Neonates: A Systematic Review of Randomised Controlled Trials. (October 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Venkatesh, V; Khan, R; Curley, A; Doree, C; Hopewell, S; Stanworth, S
• Is Part Of: Archives of disease in childhood. Volume 97(2012)Supplement 2
• Page Start: A74
• Page End: A75
• Publication Date: 2012-10
• Subjects: Children -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.920005
• DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2012-302724.0257
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-9888

Abstract

Abstract : Background and Aims: Premature neonates commonly receive red blood cell (RBC) transfusions. Our aim was to systematically review the randomised controlled trial (RCT) evidence for use of RBC transfusions. Methods: We identified RCTs where the intervention was 'transfusion of red blood cells' from searches of multiple databases. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assigned overall quality. The primary review outcomes were mortality, and neurodevelopmental and respiratory endpoints. Results: We identified 27 RCTs; three studies compared RBC transfusion versus no transfusion/placebo, four compared transfusions of differing doses or administration schedule, 14 compared different types or products of RBC and six compared different thresholds for transfusion. Within the group of product trials, the largest subgroup of seven RCTs evaluated different media for storage or dilution of red cells, enrolling a total of 221 neonates. In the threshold group of six trials, enrolling 679 neonates, no significant differences in mortality (RR 1.22, 95% C.I 0.84–1.75) or chronic lung disease (RR 0.99, 95% C.I 0.84–1.15) were found; Only one RCT assessed neurodevelopment at 2 years and reported no difference. Many trials failed to report on clinical outcomes including mortality, chronic lung disease or other major neonatal co-morbidities, which would be considered of importance to clinicians. Conclusions: There are a large number of RCTs of RBC transfusions in this high risk population. Despite this, areas of concern included the nature of the intervention, outcome measures, sample size and quality of the trials, which precluded clear recommendations on the safety and role of RBC transfusion.