Abstract

Objective: Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) has limited indications despite its frequent use. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and laboratory findings of patients who received FFP transfusion. The suitability and effectiveness of transfusion were also examined.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the files of patients who underwent FFP transfusion for any reason below the age of 18 years. Transfusion suitability was determined based on the transfusion guidelines.

Results: Two hundred eight FFP transfusions to 134 patients were included in the study. In total, 429 units of FFP were transfused. Of the 208 transfusions, 156 (75%) were appropriate based on indication and 52 (25%) were considered inappropriate. In total, 87 out of the 429 units of the product (20.2%) were transfused inappropriately. None of the patients who received inappropriate transfusions exhibited signs of bleeding. Significant improvements in prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time were observed in patients who received transfusions with appropriate indications.

Conclusion: In this study, the incidence of inappropriate FFP transfusion was lower compared to other centers. However, 3 out of 4 patients received prophylactic FFP for bleeding prevention. The cost of inappropriate transfusions in this study was estimated at $1640 annually. Since transfusion practices are mostly based on adult studies, our study will increase awareness regarding transfusion practices among children. Consequently, there is a need for educational programs that can reduce the rate of FFP transfusions.