Exchange transfusion using peripheral vessels is safe and effective in newborn infants.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to compare the efficiency and safety of exchange transfusion by using peripheral arteries and veins with that of conventional exchange transfusion via the umbilical vein in treating neonatal pathologic hyperbilirubinemia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of all neonates who had undergone exchange transfusion at our institution from January 1995 to December 2006. Causes of jaundice, efficiency of exchange transfusion in lowering serum bilirubin concentrations, adverse events, and outcomes were recorded. Data were compared between neonates who had undergone exchange transfusion via the peripheral arteries and veins method and those who had undergone exchange transfusion via the umbilical vein method. Data were also compared between stable neonates (body weight > 1500 g without medical problems other than jaundice) and unstable neonates.

RESULTS: A total of 123 exchange-transfusion procedures were performed in 102 neonates in the 12-year study period: 24 were performed via the umbilical vein method and 99 via the peripheral vessels method. A total of 87 procedures were performed in 75 stable neonates and 36 in 27 unstable neonates. There was no significant difference in reduction of serum bilirubin level from circulation or the duration of procedures between the 2 methods. Eight neonates died before discharge, but none of the deaths seem to have been attributable to the exchange-transfusion procedure. Severe adverse events occurred more commonly in the umbilical vein group than the peripheral arteries and veins group in the stable neonates. All of the severe and minor events resolved completely without noticeable sequelae before discharge.

CONCLUSIONS: Exchange transfusion using peripheral arteries and veins is efficient and effective in reducing serum bilirubin from circulation and is associated with few adverse events. This method should be considered for all neonates requiring exchange transfusion for treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.