Vox sanguinis
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Recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa, NovoSeven) has been used off-label for various conditions. A protocol for its use in acute, uncontrolled life-threatening bleeding, was devised and employed. A haematologist/transfusion specialist was assigned as a member of the team. ⋯ In an area where very little data exists, we report the usefulness of rFVIIa. We propose that transfusion replacement should aim to correct coagulopathy before infusion of rFVIIa and that a haematologist/transfusion specialist should be involved in the management of these patients. A prognostically significant coagulopathy scoring system is offered.
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Comparative Study
The in vitro quality of washed, prestorage leucocyte-depleted red blood cell concentrates.
No data are currently available on the quality of washed prestorage leucocyte-depleted red blood cell concentrates (RCCs). ⋯ Washing of RCCs stored in SAG-M results in a considerable, significant loss of erythrocyte 2,3-DPG, especially in older RCCs. This loss increases in during a 6-h storage period postwash, even at 4 degrees C. This loss of erythrocyte quality might well outweigh the benefits of washed SAG-M RCCs during massive transfusion in neonates.