Advancing Patient Blood Management: Evaluation of Ferric Derisomaltose in a Tertiary Hospital

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background and Objectives: One of the aims of patient blood management (PBM) programs is to improve patient outcomes by managing anemia and avoiding unnecessary blood transfusions. Ferric derisomaltose (FDI) is a treatment that allows for the injection of high doses of iron in a shorter time, which makes it a promising approach for correcting iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) more efficiently. This study aimed to assess the safety, effectiveness, and cost implications of FDI in a PBM program and its impact on transfusion requirements. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on electronic medical records of adult patients diagnosed with IDA who received FDI as part of a PBM strategy in a tertiary hospital from November 2019 to June 2021. Descriptive statistics summarized patient characteristics and outcomes. Changes in hemoglobin (Hb) levels were evaluated using a paired t-test. Cost analysis included direct and indirect expenses associated with FDI administration compared to alternative treatments. Results: Out of the initially enrolled 110 patients, 67 were included in the analysis. A mean increase in Hb levels of 2.7 ± 1.9 g/dL was observed as early as 4 days post-FDI administration. The majority of patients (94.0%) tolerated FDI well, with only a few experiencing mild adverse reactions. Following FDI administration, blood transfusion was avoided by 88% of patients. Cost analysis revealed that while FDI demonstrated higher direct costs compared to alternative treatments, its potential for lower total costs became apparent when considering both direct and indirect expenses. Conclusions: FDI demonstrated promising results in rapidly correcting IDA within a PBM program. It reduced the need for blood transfusions, with the treatment being well-tolerated by patients. The inclusion of FDI administration in PBM programs offers a convenient, efficient, and potentially cost-effective approach to managing IDA.