Our Summary

This study aimed to determine if a medical procedure called acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) can reduce the need for blood transfusions during and after scoliosis surgery in children and teenagers. The researchers looked at data from 147 patients who had such surgeries. They split these patients into two groups: one that received ANH and one that did not (control group). They found that the group that received ANH needed fewer blood transfusions during and after surgery. They also received a smaller amount of blood overall. Even after considering factors like blood loss during surgery and the length of the operation, ANH was still linked with a lower need for blood transfusions. In simple terms, using ANH can decrease the need for blood transfusions in young scoliosis patients during and after surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the aim of the study conducted on acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) and scoliosis surgery in children and teenagers?
  2. How can acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) influence the need for blood transfusions during and after pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  3. Was the need for blood transfusions still lower in the group that received ANH even after considering factors like blood loss during surgery and the length of the operation?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient that using acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) during pediatric scoliosis surgery can help reduce the need for blood transfusions, which can lead to a quicker recovery and fewer complications. It’s important to discuss this option with your healthcare provider to see if it is appropriate for your child’s specific situation.

Suitable For

Pediatric scoliosis surgery is typically recommended for patients who have severe scoliosis that is causing significant curvature of the spine, pain, difficulty breathing, or other complications. Surgery may be recommended for patients who have not responded to other treatments such as bracing or physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may also be recommended for younger patients who have a high risk of progression of their scoliosis.

Timeline

Before pediatric scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient is diagnosed with scoliosis and recommended for surgery after conservative treatments have proven ineffective
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations including physical exams, imaging tests, and blood work
  • Patient and family receive education on the surgery, potential risks and benefits, and post-operative care
  • Patient may undergo physical therapy to prepare for surgery

After pediatric scoliosis surgery:

  • Patient is admitted to the hospital and undergoes the surgical procedure to correct the curvature of the spine
  • Patient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit (ICU) immediately after surgery
  • Patient may receive blood transfusions if needed due to blood loss during surgery
  • Patient is gradually weaned off pain medication and encouraged to start moving and walking with the help of physical therapy
  • Patient is discharged from the hospital once deemed stable and able to continue recovery at home
  • Patient continues to follow up with their surgeon for post-operative appointments and physical therapy to aid in recovery and rehabilitation.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is pediatric scoliosis surgery and why is it necessary for my child?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process for pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  4. What are the potential long-term effects of pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  5. What is acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) and how does it work to reduce the need for blood transfusions during and after surgery?
  6. Are there any specific criteria that make a patient eligible for ANH during pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  7. What are the potential risks and side effects of using ANH during pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  8. How does ANH compare to other methods of reducing blood loss during surgery in terms of effectiveness and safety?
  9. Will my child need blood transfusions if they do not receive ANH during pediatric scoliosis surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that can be considered instead of or in addition to pediatric scoliosis surgery?

Reference

Authors: Uchida S, Kinoshita H, Takekawa D, Saito J, Hirota K. Journal: J Anesth. 2022 Aug;36(4):484-492. doi: 10.1007/s00540-022-03078-z. Epub 2022 Jun 8. PMID: 35676440