Massive transfusion in pediatric trauma: An ATOMAC perspective

• Published in: Journal of pediatric surgery Vol. 54; no. 2; pp. 345 - 349
• Main Authors: Noland, Daniel K., Apelt, Nadja, Greenwell, Cynthia, Tweed, Jefferson, Notrica, David M., Garcia, Nilda M., Todd Maxson, R., Eubanks, James W., Alder, Adam C.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01.02.2019
• Subjects: Pediatric massive transfusion; Trauma resuscitation; Pediatric massive transfusion; Trauma resuscitation
• ISSN: 0022-3468; 1531-5037
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2018.10.040

Massive transfusion protocols (MTPs) are considered valuable in pediatric trauma. Important questions regarding the survival benefit and optimal blood component ratio remain unknown. The study time frame was January 2007 through December 2013 five Level I Pediatric Trauma Centers reviewed all trauma activations involving children ≤18 years of age. Included were patients who either had the institutional MTP or received >20 mL/kg or > 2 units packed red blood cells (PRBCs). 110/202 qualified for inclusion. Median age was 5.9 years (3.0–11.4). 73% survived to discharge; median hospitalization was 10 (3.1–22.8) days. Survival did not vary by arrival hemoglobin (Hgb), gender or age. Partial prothrombin time (PTT), INR, GCS and injury severity score (ISS) significantly differed for nonsurvivors (all p < 0.05). Logistic regression found increased mortality (OR 3.08 (1.10–8.57), 95% CI; p = 0.031) per unit increase over a 1:1 ratio of pRBC:FFP. In pediatric trauma pRBC:FFP ratio of 1:1 was associated with the highest survival of severely injured children receiving massive transfusion. Ratios 2:1 or ≥3:1 were associated with significantly increased risk of death. These data support a higher proportion of plasma products for pediatric trauma patients requiring massive transfusion. Level IV.