Intraoperative pediatric blood transfusion therapy: a review of common issues. Part II: transfusion therapy, special considerations, and reduction of allogenic blood transfusions

Perioperative blood loss reduction using a sterile exsanguination tourniquet for orthopedic femoral-related surgeries in children: a randomized controlled study

OBJECTIVES

The sterile exsanguination tourniquet (SET) could be an alternative for providing bloodless surgeries in orthopedic femoral-related surgeries in pediatric patients where the standard pneumatic tourniquet would not be feasible. This randomized-controlled study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of SET in decreasing total perioperative blood loss and blood transfusion.

METHODS

We conducted an unplanned interim analysis of data from a randomized-controlled trial. At the time of the analysis, 31 pediatric patients had been randomly assigned to undergo surgery with the SET application (the SET group, 15 patients) and without the SET application (the control group, 16 patients). An intention-to-treat analysis was performed to evaluate the total perioperative blood loss, postoperative blood transfusion, estimated intraoperative blood loss, total drainage volume, postoperative hemoglobin level, and operative time according to the significance level adjusted for multiplicity (p < 0.029).

RESULTS

There was a borderline statistically significant lower body weight-adjusted TBL in the SET group (SET = 14.1 (7.7, 16.9) ml/kg vs. control 18.3 (14.8, 37.2) ml/kg, p-value = 0.027). The body weight-adjusted transfusion volume was statistically significantly greater in the control group (SET = 0.0 (0.0, 0.0) ml/kg vs. control = 2.1 (0.0, 9.7) ml/kg, p = 0.017). Body weight-adjusted estimated intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in the SET group (SET = 0.8 (0.2, 3.5) ml/kg vs. control = 5.6 (3.4, 21.5) ml/kg, p < 0.001). In addition, the operative time was lower in the SET group with borderline statistical significance (SET = 105 (85.0, 125.0) vs. control = 130 (101.3, 167.5), p =  0.039).

CONCLUSION

Utilization of a sterile exsanguination tourniquet (SET) significantly reduced an estimated intraoperative blood loss while preventing the need for blood transfusion after pediatric orthopedic femoral-related surgeries. Trial registration TCTR20220412003.

Association of red blood cell transfusion volume with postoperative complications and mortality in neonatal surgery

INTRODUCTION

Red blood cell transfusion (RBCT) is commonly administered in neonatal surgical care in the absence of clear clinical indications such as active bleeding or anemia. We hypothesized that higher RBCT volumes are associated with worse postoperative outcomes.

METHODS

Neonates within the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program-Pediatric database who underwent inpatient surgery (2012-2016) were stratified by weight-based RBCT volume: <20cc/kg, 20-40cc/kg, and >40cc/kg. Postoperative complications were categorized as wound, systemic infection, central nervous system (CNS), renal, pulmonary, and cardiovascular. Multivariable logistic regression and cubic spline analysis were used to evaluate the association between RBCT volume, postoperative complications, and 30-day mortality. Sensitivity analysis was conducted by performing propensity score matching.

RESULTS

Among 9,877 neonates, 1,024 (10%) received RBCTs. Of those who received RBCT, 53% received <20cc/kg, 27% received 20-40cc/kg, and 20% received >40cc/kg. Relative to neonates who were not transfused, RBCT volume was associated with a dose-dependent increase in renal complications, CNS complications, cardiovascular complications, and 30-day mortality. With cubic spline analysis, a lone inflection point for 30-day mortality was identified at a RBCT volume of 30 - 35 cc/kg. After propensity score matching, the dose-dependent relationship was still present for 30-day mortality.

CONCLUSION

Total RBCT volume is associated with worse postoperative outcomes in neonates with a significant increase in 30-day mortality at a RBCT volume of 30 - 35 cc/kg. Future prospective studies are needed to better understand the association between large RBCT volumes and poor outcomes after neonatal surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Retrospective cohort study.

Transfusion therapy of neonatal and paediatric patients: They are not just little adults

Patient blood management (PBM) strategies are needed in the neonate and paediatric population, given that haemoglobin thresholds used are often higher than recommended by evidence, with exposure of children to potential complications without meaningful benefit. A literature review was performed on the following topics: evidence-based transfusions of blood components and pharmaceutical agents. Other topics reviewed included perioperative coagulation assessment and perioperative PBM. The Transfusion and Anaemia Expertise Initiative (TAXI) consortium published a consensus statement addressing haemoglobin (Hb) transfusion threshold in multiple subsets of patients. A multicentre trial (PlaNeT-2) reported a higher risk of bleeding and death or serious new bleeding among infants who received platelet transfusion at a higher (50 000/μl) compared to a lower (25 000/μl) threshold. Recent data support the use of a restrictive transfusion threshold of 25 000/μl for prophylactic platelet transfusions in preterm neonates. The TAXI-CAB consortium mentioned that in critically ill paediatric patients undergoing invasive procedures outside of the operating room, platelet transfusion might be considered when the platelet count is less than or equal to 20 000/μl and there is no benefit of platelet transfusion when the platelet count is more than 50 000/μl. There are limited controlled studies in paediatric and neonatal population regarding plasma transfusion. Blood conservation strategies to minimise allogenic blood exposure are essential to positive patient outcomes neonatal and paediatric transfusion practices have changed significantly in recent years since randomised controlled trials were published to guide practice. Additional studies are needed in order to provide practice change recommendations.

Perioperative blood transfusion decreases long-term survival in pediatric living donor liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

The impact of perioperative blood transfusion on short- and long-term outcomes in pediatric living donor liver transplantation (PLDLT) must still be ascertained, mainly among young children. Clinical and surgical postoperative complications related to perioperative blood transfusion are well described up to three months after adult liver transplantation.

AIM

To determine whether transfusion is associated with early and late postoperative complications and mortality in small patients undergoing PLDLT.

METHODS

We evaluated the effects of perioperative transfusion on postoperative complications in recipients up to 20 kg of body weight, submitted to PLDLT. A total of 240 patients were retrospectively allocated into two groups according to postoperative complications: Minor complications (n = 109) and major complications (n = 131). Multiple logistic regression analysis identified the volume of perioperative packed red blood cells (RBC) transfusion as the only independent risk factor for major postoperative complications. The receiver operating characteristic curve was drawn to identify the optimal volume of the perioperative RBC transfusion related to the presence of major postoperative complications, defining a cutoff point of 27.5 mL/kg. Subsequently, patients were reallocated to a low-volume transfusion group (LTr; n = 103, RBC ≤ 27.5 mL/kg) and a high-volume transfusion group (HTr; n = 137, RBC > 27.5 mL/kg) so that the outcome could be analyzed.

RESULTS

High-volume transfusion was associated with an increased number of major complications and mortality during hospitalization up to a 10-year follow-up period. During a short-term period, the HTr showed an increase in major infectious, cardiovascular, respiratory, and bleeding complications, with a decrease in rejection complications compared to the LTr. Over a long-term period, the HTr showed an increase in major infectious, cardiovascular, respiratory, and minor neoplastic complications, with a decrease in rejection complications. Additionally, Cox hazard regression found that high-volume RBC transfusion increased the mortality risk by 3.031-fold compared to low-volume transfusion. The Kaplan-Meier survival curves of the studied groups were compared using log-rank tests and the analysis showed significantly decreased graft survival, but with no impact in patient survival related to major complications. On the other hand, there was a significant decrease in both graft and patient survival, with high-volume RBC transfusion.

CONCLUSION

Transfusion of RBC volume higher than 27.5 mL/kg during the perioperative period is associated with a significant increase in short- and long-term postoperative morbidity and mortality after PLDLT.

Audit of blood product utilization in the care of injured children

BACKGROUND

Blood product utilization in injured children is poorly characterized; the decision to prepare products or transfuse patients can be difficult due to a lack of reliable evidence of transfusion needs across pediatric age-groups and injury types. We conducted an audit of transfusion practices in pediatric trauma based on age, injuries, and mechanism of injury.

METHODS

We reviewed and cross-referenced blood product transfusion practice data from the trauma registry and the anesthesia transfusion record database at a level 1 pediatric trauma center over a 10-year period. Demographic data, injury severity scores, and survival statistics were obtained from the trauma registry. Transfusion rates are reported separately for hospital admission and for intraoperative transfusions for procedures performed during the first two hospital days. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to compare specific groups based on age, injury type, and mechanism of injury.

RESULTS

We report 14 569 trauma admissions of 14 606 patients. The transfusion rate during the admission was 1.56% (227/14 569). 4591 (30.9%) admissions had surgical interventions in first two days of hospitalization with an intraoperative transfusion rate of 2.98%. Patients younger than one year had the highest transfusion rate during admission (2.8%), and the highest transfusion rate during surgical procedures performed in the first two days of the admission (18.87%). Admissions due to vascular injuries had the highest transfusion rates in infancy followed by hollow visceral injuries in adolescents (71.4% and 25%, respectively). Vascular injuries in most age-groups also had high transfusion rates ranging from 11% in 5- to 9-year age-group to 71% in infants. Mechanisms with the highest transfusion rates were firearm wounds in patients older than one year and vehicular accidents for patients younger than one year.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall blood product needs in the pediatric trauma population are low (1.56%). Selected populations requiring higher rates of need include infants younger than one year, and children with thoracic and vascular injuries. Understanding transfusion patterns is important to optimize resource allocation.

Pediatric Fibrinogen PART I-Pitfalls in Fibrinogen Evaluation and Use of Fibrinogen Replacement Products in Children

Fibrinogen is a key coagulation protein, playing a critical role in hemostasis. It is the first factor to decrease to critical levels during bleeding. Hypofibrinogenemia is an important risk factor for bleeding in clinical settings, including pediatric surgery. Yet, the optimal measurement of fibrinogen levels is subject to debate, as is the critical threshold for intervention. Fibrinogen replacement may be provided by cryoprecipitate and fibrinogen concentrate. Whilst both products contain fibrinogen, they are not equivalent, each has its own advantages and disadvantages, especially for pediatric use. Unfortunately, medical literature to support fibrinogen replacement in children is limited. In this article we review the current diagnostic tools to measure fibrinogen, with respect to their use in the pediatric critical care setting. Secondly, we evaluate the different fibrinogen replacement therapies, focusing on cryoprecipitate and fibrinogen concentrate and examine their individual product characteristics, associated risks and benefits, different dosing strategies and specific pitfalls for use in children. We summarize by highlighting current knowledge gaps and areas for future research.

Mechanism, frequency, transfusion and outcome of severe trauma in coagulopathic paediatric patients

Purpose

Acute traumatic coagulopathy can result in uncontrolled haemorrhage responsible for the majority of early deaths after adult trauma. Data on the frequency, transfusion practice and outcome of severe trauma haemorrhage in paediatric patients are inconsistent.

Methods

Datasets from paediatric trauma patients were retrieved from the registry of the German trauma society (TR-DGU^®) between 2009 and 2016. Coagulopathy was defined by a Quick’s value < 70% (INR (international normalized ratio) > 1.4) and/or thrombocytes ≤ 100 k upon emergency room admission. Children were grouped according to age in 4 different groups (A: 1–5, B: 6–10, C: 11–15 and D: 16–17 years). Prevalence of coagulopathy was assessed. Demographics, injury severity, haemostatic management including transfusions and mortality were described.

Results

5351 primary admitted children ≤ 17 years with an abbreviated injury scale (AIS) ≥ 3 and complete datasets were included. The prevalence of coagulopathy was 13.7% (733/5351). The majority of the children sustained blunt trauma (more than 90% independent of age group) and a combination of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and any other trauma in more than 60% (A, C, D) and in 53.8% in group B. Coagulopathy occurred the most among the youngest (A: 18.2%), followed by all other age groups with approximately 13%. Overall mortality was the highest in the youngest (A: 40.9%) and among the youngest patients with traumatic brain injury (A: 71.4% and B: 47.1%). Transfusion of packed red blood cells (pRBCs) and fresh frozen plasma (FFPs) occurred almost in a 2:1 ratio (or less) across all age subgroups.

Conclusion

Traumatic haemorrhage in association with coagulopathy and severe shock is a major challenge in paediatric trauma across all age groups.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00068-020-01398-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Fifteen-minute consultation: How to be the paediatrician at a trauma call

The management of paediatric trauma patients can be complex, involving a coordinated multidisciplinary approach. Paediatricians form an integral part of the trauma team and are often tasked with managing circulation. In this article, we will discuss the assessment of catastrophic haemorrhage and 'circulation' through the viewpoint of a paediatrician via a case discussion. This will include initial investigations and management, noting the time critical nature in identifying and stopping catastrophic haemorrhage. The discussion will comment on how to address hypovolaemic shock and touch on the role of imaging.

Successful ROTEM-guided transfusion therapy in a case of rural paediatric trauma

Massive transfusion therapy in severe paediatric trauma is a challenge. When this occurs in a rural setting, the potential delays in accessing medical services can lead to worse coagulopathy on presentation. We report successful treatment of a child post-traumatic lower limb amputation where treatment was only initiated 3 hours postinjury due to difficulties in access/retrieval. Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM)-guided, goal-directed haemostatic therapy perioperatively utilising a blood product ratio of 2:2:1 units of red blood cell:free frozen plasma:platelet reverted his coagulopathy. This report aims to raise awareness of the utility of ROTEM in paediatric trauma.

Management Issues in Critically Ill Pediatric Patients with Trauma

The management of critically ill pediatric patients with trauma poses many challenges because of the infrequency and diversity of severe injuries and a paucity of high-level evidence to guide care for these uncommon events. This article discusses recent recommendations for early resuscitation and blood component therapy for hypovolemic pediatric patients with trauma. It also highlights the specific types of injuries that lead to severe injury in children and presents challenges related to their management.

Children are not little adults: blood transfusion in children with burn injury

Blood transfusion in burns larger than 20% total body surface area (TBSA) are frequent due to operative procedures, blood sampling, and physiologic response to burn injury. Optimizing the use of blood transfusions requires an understanding of the physiology of burn injury, the risks and benefits of blood transfusion, and the indications for transfusion. Age also plays a role in determining blood transfusion requirements. Children in particular have a different physiology than adults, which needs to be considered prior to transfusing blood and blood products. This article describes the physiologic differences between children and adults in general and after burn injury and describes how these differences impact blood transfusion practices in children.

Massive transfusion: An update for the anesthesiologist

Exsanguination from trauma, gastrointestinal bleeding, and obstetric hemorrhage remains a major source of mortality across the planet. Continued research into resuscitation strategies and evolving technology and blood product storage has allowed for patient to undergo very large volume transfusions, even to the point of replacing a patient’s blood volume several times over. As massive transfusions have become more common, more studies have been performed delineating the exact patient population that would benefit, start- and stop-points of transfusions, complications and avoidance of the same. We discuss these points and provide information and strategies for massive transfusion.

Risk factors for intraoperative massive transfusion in pediatric liver transplantation: a multivariate analysis

Background: Pediatric liver transplantation (LT) is strongly associated with increased intraoperative blood transfusion requirement and postoperative morbidity and mortality. In the present study, we aimed to assess the risk factors associated with massive transfusion in pediatric LT, and examined the effect of massive transfusion on the postoperative outcomes. Methods: We enrolled pediatric patients who underwent LT between December 1994 and June 2015. Massive transfusion was defined as the administration of red blood cells ≥100% of the total blood volume during LT. The cases of pediatric LT were assigned to the massive transfusion or no-massive transfusion (administration of red blood cells <100% of the total blood volume during LT) group. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the risk factors associated with massive transfusion in pediatric LT. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, with the log rank test, was used to compare graft and patient survival within 6 months after pediatric LT between the 2 groups. Results: The total number of LT was 112 (45.0%) and 137 (55.0%) in the no-massive transfusion and massive transfusion groups, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that high white blood cell (WBC) count, low platelet count, and cadaveric donors were significant predictive factors of massive transfusion during pediatric LT. The graft failure rate within 6 months in the massive transfusion group tended to be higher than that in the no-massive transfusion group (6.6% vs. 1.8%, P = 0.068). However, the patient mortality rate within 6 months did not differ significantly between the massive transfusion and no-massive transfusion groups (7.3% vs. 7.1%, P = 0.964). Conclusion: Massive transfusion during pediatric LT is significantly associated with a high WBC count, low platelet count, and cadaveric donor. This finding can provide a better understanding of perioperative blood transfusion management in pediatric LT recipients.

Effectiveness of tranexamic acid for reducing intraoperative bleeding in palatoplasties: A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Few data are available regarding blood loss during cleft palate surgery. This study assessed the effect of using tranexamic acid in the reduction of intraoperative bleeding.

METHODS

A double-blind, randomized clinical trial compared intraoperative bleeding and the incidence of oronasal fistulas after palatoplasties in a control group that was given placebo and an intervention group that was given 10 mg/kg tranexamic acid followed by a continuous infusion of 1 mg/kg/h of the same until the end of surgery. Patients who underwent primary palatoplasty with no known or suspected coagulation disorders at our institution during the study period were included in the study.

RESULTS

70 patients were allocated, 66 received the intervention. Blood loss was reduced by 11.9%, without statistical significance. The incidence of fistulas in the intervention and control groups was 12.9% and 18.75%, respectively. The reduction of 5.8% (CI 95%: 12%-23.8%) was not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The reduction of intraoperative blood loss was lower than expected and not statistically significant; a larger sample is needed to confirm the observed reduction. The drug did not seem to have negative effects on flap viability.

Antifibrinolytic agents for reducing blood loss in scoliosis surgery in children

BACKGROUND

This is an updated version of the original Cochrane review first published in 2008. Scoliosis surgery is often associated with substantial blood loss and potentially detrimental effects in children. Antifibrinolytic agents are often used to reduce perioperative blood loss. Clinical trials have evaluated their efficacy in children undergoing surgical correction of scoliosis, but no systematic review has been published. This review was first published in 2008 and was updated in 2016.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy and safety of aprotinin, tranexamic acid and aminocaproic acid in reducing blood loss and transfusion requirements in children undergoing surgery for correction of idiopathic or secondary scoliosis.

SEARCH METHODS

We ran the search for the previous review in June 2007. For this updated version, we searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2015, Issue 7), MEDLINE (1946 to August week 1 2015), Embase (1947 to 2015 week 38), Latin American Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) (1982 to 14 August 2015), Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE; 2015, Issue 2) and reference lists of reviews and retrieved articles for randomized controlled trials in any language. We also checked the clinical trial registry at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov on 8 October 2015.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included blinded and unblinded randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effects of antifibrinolytics on perioperative blood loss in children 18 years of age or younger and undergoing scoliosis surgery.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently extracted data. The primary outcome was total blood loss (intraoperative and postoperative combined). Secondary efficacy outcomes were the number of participants receiving blood transfusion (both autologous and allogeneic) or receiving allogeneic blood transfusion alone, and the total amount of blood transfused. Safety outcomes included the number of deaths, the number of participants reporting any adverse event or a serious adverse event, withdrawals due to adverse events and the number of participants experiencing a specific adverse event (i.e. renal insufficiency, hypersensitivity or thrombosis). We assessed methodological risk of bias for each included study and employed the GRADE approach to assess the overall quality of the evidence.

MAIN RESULTS

We included three new studies (201 participants) in this updated review, for a total of nine studies (455 participants). All but one study employed placebo as the control group intervention. For the primary outcome, antifibrinolytic drugs decreased the amount of perioperative blood loss by 427 mL (95% confidence interval (CI) 251 to 603 mL), for a reduction of over 20% versus placebo. We rated the quality of evidence for our primary outcome as low on the basis of unclear risk of bias for several domains in most studies and the small total number of participants.For secondary outcomes, fewer participants receiving antifibrinolytic drugs received transfusion (allogeneic or autologous) versus those receiving placebo (risk ratio (RR) 0.65, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.85, number needed to treat to prevent one additional harmful outcome (NNTp) 5; very low-quality evidence). Only two studies specifically evaluated the number of participants transfused with only allogeneic blood (risk difference (RD) -0.15, 95% CI -0.26 to -0.03, NNTp 7; very low-quality evidence). Antifibrinolytic drugs decreased the volume of blood transfused by 327 mL (95% CI -186 to -469 mL; low-quality evidence).No study reported deaths in active or control groups. Data were insufficient to allow performance of meta-analysis for any safety outcome. No studies adequately described their methods in assessing safety. The only adverse event of note occurred in one study, when three participants in the placebo group developed postoperative deep vein thrombosis.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Since the last published version of this review (2008), we have found three new studies. Additional evidence shows that antifibrinolytics reduce the requirement for both autologous and allogeneic blood transfusion. Limited evidence of low to very low quality supports the use of antifibrinolytic drugs for reducing blood loss and decreasing the risk, and volume, of transfusion in children undergoing scoliosis surgery. Evidence is insufficient to support the use of a particular agent, although tranexamic acid may be preferred, given its widespread availability. The optimal dose regimen for any of these three agents has not been established. Although adverse events appear to occur infrequently, evidence is insufficient to confirm the safety of these agents, particularly for rare but potentially catastrophic events. No long-term safety data are available.

[Intraoperative fluid therapy in infants with congestive heart failure due to intracranial pial arteriovenous fistula]

Pial arteriovenous fistula is a rare intracranial congenital malformation (0.1-1: 100,000). It has a high blood flow between one or more pial arteries and drains into the venous circulation. It is usually diagnosed during the childhood by triggering an intracranial hypertension and/or congestive heart failure due to left-right systemic shunt. It is a rare malformation with a complex pathophysiology. The perioperative anaesthetic management is not well established. We present a 6-month-old infant diagnosed with pial arteriovenous fistula with hypertension and congestive heart failure due to left-right shunt. He required a craniotomy and clipping of vascular malformation. Anaesthetic considerations in patients with this condition are a great challenge. It must be performed by multidisciplinary teams with experience in paediatrics. The maintenance of blood volume during the intraoperative course is very important. Excessive fluid therapy can precipitate a congestive heart failure or intracranial hypertension, and a lower fluid therapy may cause a tissue hypoxia due to the bleeding.

Impact of supplemental vitamin K1 administration on postoperative blood component requirements after craniosynostosis repair: a prospective, placebo-controlled, randomized, blinded study

Total cranial vault craniosynostosis repairs often require additional blood transfusions in the intensive care unit. Vitamin K1 participates in hepatic production of procoagulant proteins, and body stores of vitamin K1 are limited and dietary dependent. Surgical stress and diet interference may place infants at risk for vitamin K deficiency. Through design of a surgically stratified, randomized, placebo-controlled, blinded pilot study, we evaluated impact of vitamin K1 supplementation on coagulation parameters in infants after craniosynostosis repair. Patients received intramuscular vitamin K1 or placebo coincident with surgical incision. Serum vitamin K1 levels, protein induced in vitamin K absence-prothrombin, and factor VII were obtained at predetermined intervals after surgery. Patients received blood products in the intensive care unit in accordance with transfusion thresholds. Fifteen patients (vitamin K1 = 6, placebo = 9) completed the study procedures. Despite group assignment, patients received an average of 3 postoperative transfusions. Variations were observed with respect to intraoperative resuscitation of patients between comparably trained pediatric anesthesiologists. Thirty-three percent of patients were vitamin K1 deficient on 1 or more laboratory specimens. All breast-fed patients became deficient. Compared with placebo, elevated serum vitamin K1 levels at 6, 12, and 24 hours in the active drug group (P < 0.0001) were not associated with increased factor VII levels or reduced need for postoperative blood products. However, lack of a standardized intraoperative resuscitation plan may contribute to postoperative coagulopathy and is a major study limitation.

Pediatric transplantation: managing bleeding

There has been extraordinary progress over the last half-century in the field of medical transplantation in which tissue, organs, or body parts from one human are placed into another. Solid organ transplants have allowed thousands of children with otherwise devastating inherited or acquired disorders to survive. Depending upon the clinical situation, there are many specific peri-transplant issues that must be carefully addressed to optimize outcomes. Although surgical, immunologic, and infectious concerns are usually in the forefront, important aspects regarding hemostasis frequently arise. The number of solid organs that can be successfully transplanted in children has expanded over the last decades and includes kidney, liver, heart, lung, intestine, pancreas, and thymus. Bleeding complications may occur in the setting of organ failure prior to transplantation, during the surgical procedure, or in the post-transplant setting, and can results in significant morbidity. This report will focus on preventing and managing non-surgical-related bleeding complications in children undergoing liver, heart, kidney transplantation, in whom there are often unique aspects of coagulation to be considered.

The effects of balanced blood component resuscitation and crystalloid administration in pediatric trauma patients requiring transfusion in Afghanistan and Iraq 2002 to 2012

BACKGROUND

Component balanced resuscitation and avoidance of crystalloids in traumatically injured adults requiring massive transfusion are beneficial. Evidence for children is lacking.

METHODS

After institutional review board approval was obtained, the Department of Defense Trauma Database identified 1,311 injured children 14 years or younger requiring transfusion after an injury and admitted to a deployed US military hospital from 2002 to 2012. Logistic regression determined risk factors for high-volume (≥40 mL/kg) or massive (≥70 mL/kg) transfusions. The effects of crystalloid and balanced component resuscitation in the first 24 hours were assessed.

RESULTS

Nine hundred seven patients had recorded data sufficient for analysis. Two hundred twenty-four children received high-volume transfusion, and 77 received massive transfusions. Mortality was significantly higher for massive transfusions and high-volume transfusions than others (25% vs. 10% and 19% vs. 9%, respectively). Age of less than 4 years, penetrating injury, and Injury Severity Score (ISS) greater than 15 were associated with high-volume transfusions; an ISS greater than 15 and penetrating injury were associated with massive transfusions. Increased crystalloid administration showed a significant positive association with hospital days and intensive care unit days for both massive and high-volume transfusions, as well as a significant positive association with increased ventilator days in patients with high-volume transfusions. Balanced component resuscitation was not associated with improved measured outcomes and was independently associated with a higher mortality when all transfused patients were considered.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort, heavy reliance on crystalloid for resuscitation had an adverse effect on outcomes. Balanced component resuscitation did not improve outcomes and was associated with higher mortality when all transfused patients were considered. Further study is needed regarding efficacy and clinical triggers for the implementation of massive transfusion in children.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic study, level IV.

Transfusion therapy in paediatric trauma patients: a review of the literature

Haemorrhage is a leading cause of death in paediatric trauma patients. Predefined massive transfusion protocols (MTP) have the potential to significantly reduce mortality by treating haemorrhagic shock and coagulopathy, in adhering to the principles of haemostatic resuscitation with rapid administration of balanced ratios of packed red blood cells (RBC), fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and platelets (PLT).

Because of their substantial physiological reserve, initial vital signs may not be good predictors of early haemorrhage in paediatric patients. Determining the triggers for MTP activation in paediatric trauma patients is challenging, and the optimal blood product ratio that will increase survival in massively bleeding paediatric trauma patients has yet to be determined. To date, only a few small descriptive studies and case reports have investigated the use of predefined MTP in paediatric trauma patients.

MTP with increased FFP or PLT to RBC ratios combined with viscoelastic haemostatic assay (VHA) guided haemostatic resuscitation have not yet been tested in paediatric populations but based on results from adult trauma patients, this therapeutic approach seems promising.

Considering the high prevalence of early coagulopathy in paediatric trauma patients, immediate identification and implementation of VHA-directed treatment of traumatic coagulopathy could ensure faster haemostasis and thereby, potentially, reduce bleeding as well as the total transfusion requirements and further improve outcome in paediatric trauma patients. Prospective randomized trials investigating this therapeutic approach in paediatric trauma patients are highly warranted.

Perioperative neonatal and paediatric blood transfusion

Paediatric patients undergoing surgical procedures commonly require some volume of blood or blood component replacement in the perioperative period. Paediatric patients undergoing major surgery associated with substantial blood loss should be evaluated pre-operatively. Pre-operative correction of anaemia may be done considering the age, plasma volume status, clinical status and comorbidities. Maximum allowable blood loss (MABL) for surgery must be calculated, and appropriate quantity of blood and blood components should be arranged. Intraoperative monitoring of blood loss should be done, and volume of transfusion should be calculated in a protocol based manner considering the volemia and the trigger threshold for transfusion for the patient and the MABL. Early haemostasis should be achieved by judicious administration of red blood cells, blood components and pharmacological agents.

Coagulopathy after severe pediatric trauma

Trauma remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States among children aged 1 to 21 years. The most common cause of lethality in pediatric trauma is traumatic brain injury. Early coagulopathy has been commonly observed after severe trauma and is usually associated with severe hemorrhage and/or traumatic brain injury. In contrast to adult patients, massive bleeding is less common after pediatric trauma. The classical drivers of trauma-induced coagulopathy include hypothermia, acidosis, hemodilution, and consumption of coagulation factors secondary to local activation of the coagulation system after severe traumatic injury. Furthermore, there is also recent evidence for a distinct mechanism of trauma-induced coagulopathy that involves the activation of the anticoagulant protein C pathway. Whether this new mechanism of posttraumatic coagulopathy plays a role in children is still unknown. The goal of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on the incidence and potential mechanisms of coagulopathy after pediatric trauma and the role of rapid diagnostic tests for early identification of coagulopathy. Finally, we discuss different options for treating coagulopathy after severe pediatric trauma.

The impact of blood product ratios in massively transfused pediatric trauma patients

BACKGROUND

Few studies have examined the impact of balanced resuscitation in pediatric trauma patients requiring massive transfusions. Adult data may not be generalizable to children.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis assessed patients seen at a level I trauma center between 2003 and 2010 aged ≤18 years requiring massive packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion, defined as transfusion of ≥50% total blood volume. After excluding mortalities in the first 24 hours, the impact of plasma and platelet ratios on mortality was evaluated.

RESULTS

Of 6,675 pediatric trauma patients, 105 were massively transfused (mean age, 12.4 ± 6.3 years; mean Injury Severity Score, 25.8 ± 11.4; mortality rate, 18.1%). All deceased patients sustained severe head injuries. Plasma/PRBC and platelet/PRBC ratios were not significantly associated with mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, higher plasma/PRBC and platelet/PRBC ratios were not associated with increased survival in children. The value of aggressive blood product transfusion for injured pediatric patients requires further prospective validation.

Massive transfusion in children and neonates

Resuscitation of children and neonates with severe or refractory bleeding due to surgery or trauma often requires massive transfusion (MT). Findings from recent studies have led to a better understanding of the complex pathophysiology in massive haemorrhage and the effects of MT on haemostasis. Current management of the massively bleeding adult patient has evolved over the past few decades, shifting to early transfusion of products in a balanced ratio as part of MT protocols (MTPs). Paediatric data on successful management of MT are limited and the optimal transfusion approach is currently unknown, leading to practice variability among institutions, depending on resource availability and patients' needs. Here, we review new important concepts in the biology of massive bleeding and MT, outline important management principles and current practices, and highlight available relevant adult and paediatric data.

Perioperative management of pediatric trauma patients

Pediatric trauma presents significant challenges to the anesthesia provider.

This review describes the current trends in perioperative anesthetic management, including airway management, choice of anesthesia agents, and fluid administration.

The review is based on the PubMed search of literature on perioperative care of severely injured children.

Basics of fluid and blood transfusion therapy in paediatric surgical patients

Perioperative fluid, electrolyte and blood transfusion therapy for infants and children can be confusing due the numerous opinions, formulas and clinical applications, which can result in a picture that is not practical and is often misleading. Perioperatively, crystalloids, colloids and blood components are required to meet the ongoing losses and for maintaining cardiovascular stability to sustain adequate tissue perfusion. Recently controversies have been raised regarding historically used formulas and practices of glucose containing hypotonic maintenance crystalloid solutions for perioperative fluid therapy in children. Paediatric intraoperative transfusion therapy, particularly the approach to massive blood transfusion (blood loss ≥ one blood volume) can be quite complex because of the unique relationship between the patient's blood volume and the volume of the individual blood product transfused. A meticulous fluid, electrolyte and blood transfusion management is required in paediatric patients perioperatively because of an extremely limited margin for error. This article reviews the basic concepts in perioperative fluid and blood transfusion therapy for paediatric patients, along with recent recommendations. For this review, Pubmed, Ovid MEDLINE, HINARI and Google scholar were searched without date restrictions. Search terms included the following in various combinations: Perioperative, fluid therapy, paediatrics, blood transfusion, electrolyte disturbances and guidelines. Only articles with English translation were used.

Massive transfusion and blood product use in the pediatric trauma patient

Hemorrhagic shock in the pediatric trauma patient is an uncommon but fundamental problem for the treating clinician. Current management of hemorrhagic shock involves initial resuscitation with crystalloid fluids followed by infusion of blood components as necessary. In management of the adult trauma patient, many institutions have implemented massive transfusion protocols to guide transfusion in situations requiring or anticipating the use of greater than 10 U of packed red blood cells. In the pediatric population, guidelines for massive transfusion are vague or nonexistent. Adult trauma transfusion protocols can be applied to children until a pediatric protocol is validated. Here, we attempt to identify certain principles of transfusion therapy specific to pediatric trauma and outline a sample pediatric massive transfusion protocol that may be used to guide resuscitation. Also, adjuncts to transfusion, such as colloid fluids, other plasma expanders or hemoglobin substitutes, and recombinant activated factor VII, are discussed.

Recombinant-activated factor VII for control and prevention of hemorrhage in nonhemophilic pediatric patients

A total of 108 episodes among 103 nonhemophilic pediatric patients (nine newborns, 16 infants and 78 children) treated with recombinant factor-activated VII (rFVIIa) were evaluated retrospectively. These episodes were divided into two groups: group 1 included 86 occurrences for hemorrhagic control of ongoing massive bleeding due to thrombocytopenia and coagulopathy unresponsive to blood component therapy in patients with dengue hemorrhagic fever, life-threatening, intraoperative and postoperative bleeding; group 2 included 22 episodes for prevention of hemorrhage with invasive procedures in patients with chronic liver disease and associated coagulopathy, and patients without preexisting hemostatic disorder but at high risk due to their underlying diagnosis and required surgical intervention. The effective control of hemostasis response rate in group 1 was significantly lower than in group 2. The median total dose per kilogram of rFVIIa group 1 was twice that of group 2. The overall case-fatality rate related to bleeding or underlying conditions was 31.1% (32/103). Adverse events were observed in three patients (2.9%) receiving rFVIIa for control of intraoperative and postoperative bleeding in the setting of corrective cardiac surgery. These results support the safety and potential benefit of rFVIIa for control and prevention of hemorrhage in pediatric patients without congenital hemophilia.

Validation of a theoretically derived model for the management of massive blood loss in pediatric patients - a case report

We present the case of a 5-year-old girl who was brought to hospital having suffered an intracranial bleed. She was found to have a large cerebral arteriovenous malformation which was unsuitable for coiling. Uncontrollable raised intracranial pressure refractory to all therapies necessitated surgery as a last resort. Massive hemorrhage eventuated during the procedure with the estimated loss of between five and six blood volumes, the majority occurring within the space of an hour and a half. We describe management using a locally developed protocol and correlate this with laboratory findings.

Antifibrinolytic agents for reducing blood loss in scoliosis surgery in children

BACKGROUND

Scoliosis surgery is often associated with substantial blood loss and potential detrimental effects in children. Antifibrinolytic agents are often used to reduce perioperative blood loss. Clinical trials have evaluated their effect in children undergoing surgical correction of scoliosis but no systematic review has been published. We performed a systematic review on the efficacy and safety of antifibrinolytic drugs in children undergoing scoliosis surgery.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy and safety of aprotinin, tranexamic acid and aminocaproic acid in reducing blood loss and transfusion requirements in children undergoing scoliosis surgery.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library 2007, Issue 3), OVID MEDLINE (1950 to September 3rd 2007), LILACS (1992 to June 20th 2007) and EMBASE (1980 to July 23rd 2007). We also searched conference proceedings from 2003 to 2007 and the clinicaltrials.gov registry. No language restriction was applied.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included blinded or unblinded randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effect of antifibrinolytics on perioperative blood loss in children that were 18 years of age or younger and undergoing scoliosis surgery.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently performed the data extraction. Primary outcomes were mortality and number of patients transfused. Secondary outcomes were number of patients transfused with allogeneic blood, amount of total blood transfused, total blood loss and adverse events. To assess heterogeneity we used the I(2) test and for the quantitative analysis we used a fixed-effect model.

MAIN RESULTS

Six studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The total number of participants was 254, of whom 127 were allocated to placebo and 127 to antifibrinolytic drugs. Aprotinin, tranexamic acid and aminocaproic acid were evaluated in two studies each. All studies had placebo as the control group intervention. There were no deaths or any serious adverse events in any study, in either the active or the control group. The risk of being transfused was similar in patients receiving antifibrinolytic drugs or placebo. Antifibrinolytics drugs decreased the amount of blood transfused by 327 ml (95% CI -469.04 to -185.78) and the amount of blood loss by 427 ml (95% CI -602.51 to -250.56). There was no indication of publication bias, however, we cannot rule it out due to the small number of studies included.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The effect of antifibrinolytic drugs on mortality could not be assessed. Antifibrinolytic drugs reduced blood loss and the amount of blood transfused in children undergoing scoliosis surgery; however, their effect on the number of children requiring blood transfusion remains unclear. Aprotinin, tranexamic acid and aminocaproic acid seem to be similarly effective.

Pediatric anesthesia in developing countries

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To highlight the problems faced in developing countries where healthcare resources are limited, with particular emphasis on pediatric anesthesia.

RECENT FINDINGS

The fact that very few publications address pediatric anesthesia in the developing world is not surprising given that most anesthetics are provided by nonphysicians, nurses or unqualified personnel. In compiling this article information is drawn from pediatric surgical, anesthetic and related texts. In a recent survey more than 80% of anesthesia providers in a poor country acknowledged that with the limited resources available they could not provide basic anesthesia for children less than 5 years. Although many publications could be regarded as anecdotal, the similarities to this survey suggest that the lack of facilities is more generalized than we would like to believe.

SUMMARY

The real risk of anesthesia in comparison to other major health risks such as human immunodeficiency virus, malaria, tuberculosis and trauma remains undetermined. The critical shortage of manpower remains a barrier to progress. Despite erratic electrical supplies, inconsistent oxygen delivery, paucity of drugs or equipment and on occasion even lack of running water, many provide life-saving anesthesia. Perioperative morbidity and mortality is, however, understandably high by developed world standards.