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Hemofiltration and plasmapheresis in newborns using a small blood pump system
R Bambauer1, G A Jutzler, H J Jesberger
1Department of Nephrology, University of Saarland, Federal Republic of Germany.
ASAIO Transactions
|July 1, 1989
Summary
Extracorporeal detoxification methods like hemofiltration and plasmapheresis are now feasible in newborns. These techniques showed promise, with 15 out of 28 infants improving despite underlying conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Critical Care
Background:
- Extracorporeal detoxification methods are currently unavailable and contraindicated in newborns and premature infants due to technical challenges.
- Limited options exist for managing critical conditions requiring fluid and toxin removal in neonates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the authors' experience using a miniaturized blood pump unit for extracorporeal detoxification in newborns.
- To evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of hemodialysis, hemofiltration, and plasmapheresis in a neonatal population.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a miniaturized blood pump unit adapted for neonatal extracorporeal therapies.
- Performed hemodialysis, hemofiltration, and plasmapheresis on 28 newborns and premature infants.
- Applied these techniques for various critical illnesses in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Main Results:
- A total of 32 hemofiltrations, 3 hemodialyses, and 57 plasmaphereses were conducted.
- Fifteen out of 28 patients demonstrated clinical improvement following treatment.
- Thirteen patients did not survive, succumbing to their primary disease or prematurity.
Conclusions:
- Miniaturized extracorporeal blood purification techniques are technically feasible in newborns and premature infants.
- Hemofiltration and plasmapheresis can be applied in neonates, offering potential benefits for specific conditions.
- Further research is warranted to optimize these life-saving interventions for vulnerable infant populations.