Background: Following the results of the PlaNeT-2 randomized controlled trial showing decreased morbidity and mortality in neonates transfused at a threshold of 25 versus 50 × 109 platelets/L, a protocol supporting restrictive platelet transfusions was established in 2019 at the Sainte-Justine Hospital neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). This study aimed to: (1) determine the impact of a local restrictive transfusion protocol on the number of platelet transfusions and donor exposure; (2) compare platelet-transfusion determinants and justifications before and after its implementation.
Study design and methods: Prospective observational cohort chart-review study comparing all neonates consecutively admitted to the NICU during two 5-months periods: 2013 (before; N = 401) versus 2021 (after; N = 402). Possible determinants were assessed via logistic regressions and justifications via a questionnaire.
Results: Mean (± standard deviation) gestational age and birth weight were 34.9 ± 4.2 weeks and 2.5 ± 1.0 kg, respectively. In 2021, 5.0% were platelet-transfused versus 9.2% in 2013 (p = .027). Platelet transfusions decreased from a mean of 2.6 ± 1.7 in 2013 to 1.4 ± 0.7 in 2021 (p = .045). Adherence to protocol thresholds was of 70%. After protocol implementation, no infant received ≥4 platelet transfusions nor was exposed to ≥4 donors, compared to 29.7% and 21.6%, respectively, in 2013. Platelet transfusion justifications and determinants remained similar, except for severe intraventricular hemorrhage being an additional determinant in 2021.
Discussion: Restrictive local transfusion thresholds in a NICU decreased the proportion of platelet-transfused neonates by 46% and reduced donor exposure in transfused patients.
Keywords: blood management; neonatal; pediatrics; platelet transfusion; transfusion practices.
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