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Neonatal Blood Transfusion in Bhubaneswar

Neonatal Blood Transfusion

Neonatal Blood Transfusion in Bhubaneswar

Neonatal blood transfusion is a common and crucial intervention performed for preterm and sick neonates. Neonatal blood transfusion in Bhubaneswar primarily aims to correct anaemia by increasing the red cell count in the baby’s circulation, which helps the baby feel better, stronger, and less tired or short of breath.

Different medical conditions in neonates can be treated by administering specific blood components. The blood is administered through the baby’s vein, and the whole transfusion process typically takes 3 to 4 hours. Before administration, blood components undergo rigorous checks to ensure safety.

Despite its benefits, neonatal blood transfusion carries certain risks. Thus, it requires careful assessment and strict adherence to protocols. The procedure should only be performed when clearly indicated, with close monitoring of the baby during and after the transfusion. At Manipal Hospitals, we prioritise your baby’s safety by assessing their condition and administering the necessary treatment.

 

FAQ's

Red blood cells have a crucial role in transporting oxygenated blood throughout the body. Oxygen is necessary for the normal functioning of the body’s organs. An anaemic baby may appear pale and sleepier than normal. If the baby has severe anaemia, it may not be able to take proper feeds and can develop shortness of breath, necessitating a blood transfusion.

A baby may become anaemic (having a reduced number of red blood cells) if they have lost too much blood or cannot make as much blood as they need. Some of the reasons for babies developing anaemia are:

  • Babies may have lost some amount of blood at the time of birth.

  • In premature babies, red cells may break down faster than normal and may not be replaced at the same rate. 

  • Premature babies may have difficulties making enough red blood cells to meet their needs. 

  • Soon after birth, a drop in hormone levels can stimulate the body to make red blood cells. However, in premature and sick infants, the red blood cell levels can drop very low for a longer period of time. 

  • Routine blood sampling may cause anaemia in babies. Although a small volume of blood is taken for testing, the volume may add up over time, necessitating a blood transfusion.

  • Surgical interventions in babies can result in blood loss, causing anaemia.

  • Occasionally, babies with severe jaundice will need to have blood removed and transfused.

Due to all these reasons, babies may need blood transfusions.

A baby of two weeks of age with anaemia can be started on iron supplements orally or through a feeding tube. However, in babies with very low levels of haemoglobin and shortness of breath, or those babies requiring surgical intervention, a red blood cell transfusion is required.

Other blood components may be transfused to the baby in specific situations. The blood components transfused are:

  • Platelets: They are the components of the blood that can stop or prevent bleeding by forming blood clots. Babies at high risk of bleeding or with a low platelet count may be transfused with platelets.

  • Plasma: This is the liquid component of the blood that surrounds red blood cells and platelets. Plasma may be transfused with or without platelets to aid in blood clot formation, as the plasma contains specific clotting factors.

The blood is transfused directly to the baby’s vein via a tube. The duration of the blood transfusion will depend on various factors; usually, the whole process takes 3 to 4 hours. If the baby needs more than one transfusion, it is ensured that the blood comes from the same donor.

One of the most important checks for a safe transfusion is to make sure the baby receives the right blood or its components. Also, their vitals, such as temperature, pulse, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, must be measured both during and after the procedure. It is also important to monitor the infants for any potential complications.

The risks associated with blood transfusion are low because of careful screening methods. However, some risks that could occur are:

  • Infection risk: Viruses such as HIV, hepatitis C, and hepatitis B may be transmitted through the blood.

  • Allergic reactions: Even though allergy risk is low in infants, it can destroy the red blood cells and also cause fever and rash to develop in babies.

  • Problems with blood volume: As blood is transfused, the volume of fluids in the baby’s body increases. Some babies may not be able to handle this extra fluid and may need medications to expel excess fluid through urine.

In the current decade, blood transfusions are considered safer than before due to advancements in the collection and testing of donated blood. However, decisions to perform transfusions on babies must be made with careful consideration, as the procedure is not risk-free.

However, in India, the following safety protocols are followed:

  • The blood donor’s health is carefully checked.

  • Each donor is asked questions to ensure the donor does not transmit any infections.

  • Each donor’s blood is tested for the presence of any infections, including HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.

 

At Manipal Hospitals, we carefully examine the donated blood to ensure our patients face minimal risk of infection or complications after blood transfusion.

Neonatal anaemia occurs due to iatrogenic phlebotomy loss that results from monitoring the baby in the weeks following birth. Therefore, to prevent blood loss, healthcare providers can use indwelling arterial lines, collect low volumes of blood from the baby, use non-invasive monitoring for blood gas, or use blood cord samples for testing.

Parents or relatives are discouraged from donating blood to the baby as there is a serious risk of adverse reactions in the baby following a blood transfusion. The blood from close relatives may affect the baby’s immune system and bone marrow, resulting in bone marrow failure.

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