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Three years with a national apheresis registry
E Schmitt1, G Kundt, H Klinkmann
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Rostock, Germany.
Journal of Clinical Apheresis
|January 1, 1992
Summary
An apheresis registry was established in East Germany to track plasma exchange therapy. The registry captured 80% of procedures, revealing insights into treatment volumes, patient demographics, and complication rates.
Area of Science:
- Medical Science
- Clinical Medicine
- Therapeutic Apheresis
Background:
- Plasma exchange therapy presents numerous challenges, necessitating improved data collection.
- An apheresis registry was proposed to address these challenges and monitor therapeutic procedures.
- This study presents findings from an early apheresis registry in East Germany.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish and evaluate the utility of an apheresis registry for tracking plasma exchange therapy.
- To analyze data on procedures, patient characteristics, and outcomes during the study period.
- To assess trends and identify areas for improvement in apheresis treatment.
Main Methods:
- An open, prospective, observational study design was employed.
- Data were collected from 1,945 plasma exchange procedures in 419 patients between 1987 and 1989.
- The registry aimed to capture approximately 80% of all national treatments.
Main Results:
- The registry successfully recorded a significant portion of national apheresis procedures.
- Nephrological and neurological conditions were the most common indications for treatment.
- Adverse events were noted in 22% of treatments, with severe complications in 2% and four probable fatalities.
Conclusions:
- The apheresis registry proved valuable for assessing treatment outcomes and trends.
- Data highlighted the prevalence of specific diagnoses and the occurrence of side effects.
- Findings underscore the importance of registries for monitoring and improving apheresis therapy.