Crystalloid or colloid for partial exchange transfusion in neonatal polycythemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

AIMS: To determine whether crystalloid solutions are as effective as colloid solutions when a partial exchange transfusion is performed in newborns with polycythemia. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register of the Cochrane Library (1966-2004). Keywords used were: polycythemia, partial exchange transfusion, hyperviscosity, and limited to newborn. Randomized studies in newborns with polycythemia were selected for evaluation. Outcomes examined were: long-term neurodevelopment; short-term physiological effects; improvement in clinical symptoms; reduction in haematocrit at 4-6 h; haematocrit at 24 h; and frequency of serious complications. RESULTS: Four randomized controlled clinical trials, including 200 patients in total, with evaluable data, which satisfied our criteria, were found. There were no data on long-term outcomes. There is no reported important difference in short-term physiologic effects. Use of crystalloid was as effective as colloid in both correction of haematological values and reduction of clinical symptoms following partial exchange transfusion. CONCLUSION: Crystalloid solutions are as effective as colloid solutions for partial exchange transfusion. When crystalloid solutions are used for this purpose, there is no risk of transmission of blood-borne diseases, there is no risk of anaphylaxis, they are rapidly and easily available, and are less expensive. The use of crystalloid should become the standard for partial exchange transfusion.