Neonatal exchange transfusions in the 21st century: A single hospital study

Abstract

Aim In the 21st century, neonatal exchange transfusions (ETs) are uncommon procedures usually performed in tertiary neonatal units. As junior clinical staff now lack familiarity with the procedure, it is important to maintain awareness of its complications in order to manage clinical risks and counsel parents appropriately. The study aims to analyse the ET rate, its indications and its associated complications, in a single tertiary centre in the 21st century. Methods This is a retrospective cohort study of all infants receiving ET from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2010 at the Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne. Results Sixty-four ETs were performed in 51 infants, an average of 6.4 ETs per ye..