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Autologous blood patch for persistent air leak in children
Joseph B Lillegard1, Raelene D Kennedy, Michael B Ishitani
1Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|October 1, 2013
Summary
Autologous blood patch (ABP) is a safe and effective treatment for persistent air leak (PAL) in children. This novel approach offers an inexpensive, simple method to seal air leaks, avoiding toxic chemicals.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Thoracic Surgery
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Persistent air leak (PAL) is a significant complication in pediatric patients, associated with increased morbidity.
- Current treatments like chemical or mechanical pleurodesis have unknown long-term effects in children.
- Autologous blood patch (ABP) presents a novel therapeutic alternative.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of autologous blood patch (ABP) for treating persistent air leak (PAL) in pediatric patients.
- To assess the outcomes and complications associated with ABP in children.
- To determine the feasibility of ABP as a treatment for PAL in the pediatric population.
Main Methods:
- Eight children aged 2 months to 18 years with PAL were treated using ABP.
- A fresh whole blood sample was obtained from each patient and injected via their existing chest tube.
- Data on blood volume injected, air leak cessation time, chest tube removal, outcomes, and complications were retrospectively reviewed.
Main Results:
- Successful air leak cessation was achieved in all eight pediatric patients treated with ABP.
- Three patients experienced immediate air leak seal, two sealed within 1-2 days, and three required a second ABP for immediate seal.
- Chest tubes were removed within 2-3 days in seven patients; one developed a transient asymptomatic pneumothorax.
Conclusions:
- Autologous blood patch (ABP) is a safe and effective treatment for persistent air leak (PAL) in children.
- ABP is an inexpensive and easily performed procedure, avoiding the use of toxic chemicals for pleurodesis.
- This technique offers a promising alternative for managing PAL in pediatric patients.
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