Low degree of regionalization and high transfusion rates in very low birthweight infants: a survey in Germany.

Abstract

Although anemia is common in very low birthweight (VLBW) infants, widely accepted guidelines for red blood cell transfusions are lacking. Questionnaires regarding transfusion policy in VLBW infants in 1994 were sent to 391 German pediatric departments. 208 questionnaires were returned. 51 departments reported not to admit VLBW infants. Thus, results are based on 157 completed questionnaires. 54% of the respondents admitted less than 30 VLBW infants per year and 52% of the VLBW infants were admitted to departments with less than 50 VLBW infants per year. Overall transfusion rate ranged from 0 to 100% (median 65%). This range narrowed with the departments' size indicating stricter guidelines with less variation. Indication for transfusion varied considerably depending on the infants' postnatal age and need for ventilatory support. 34% of the respondents applied directed transfusions, most frequently from the infant's father. 70% used satellite packs. 51% stored the packs up to 7 days, 10% longer than 14 days. Red cells were irradiated in 35%, and washed in 23% of the departments. Median single transfusion volume was 12 ml/kg. We conclude that regionalization of VLBW infants in Germany is far from completeness and that hospital policies for transfusion show large variety especially in small departments.