Abstract
During the first month of life, the majority of very low birthweight infants require multiple transfusions, thereby repeatedly exposing them to the risks ot the administration of homologous blood. Autologous transfusions minimize the risks of transfusion related infections and alloimmunization. We have developed a novel system for the “closed” aseptic collection and storage of autologous placental blood in sterile bags containing the anticoagulant, citrate phosphate dextrose-adenine.
Results: Of 29 collections from placentas of vaginal and C-section deliveries, the average volume of blood collected was 76 cc (range 55-110 cc) over 1.5 min (range 1-2 in min. Adequate anticoagulation was achieved in all samples as defined by an APTT >90 sec. Over a four week storage period at 4°C, there was no significant intrasample decline in hemoglobin concentration (0.4±0.4 g/dl; mean change ± sd), red blood cell ATP content (0.1±0.6 μm/g), change in PSD (0.1 mmHg±0.1), increase in hemolysis 0.1±0.1%), or change in red cell morphology (3 ± 1% echinocytes). Surface cultures were positive in 2 of 29 swabs prior to preparation of the cord. All placental surface cultures taken after cord preparation as well as anaerobic and aerobic blood cultures remained negative over the four week storage interval.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates the feasibility of collecting and storing placental autologous blood tor transfusions in neonates.
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Dracker, R., Lorah, K., Palit, A. et al. AN INNOVATIVE METHOD FOR NEONATAL AUTOLOGOUS TRANSFUSION. Pediatr Res 32, 616 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-199211000-00069
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-199211000-00069