Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Irradiated Platelets, Leukocyte Reduced
• Technical Term: Platelets, leukocytes reduced, irradiated, each unit

Summary

This is a blood transfusion procedure where platelets, a component of blood crucial for clotting, are treated to reduce white blood cells (leukocytes) and irradiated to prevent immune reactions. It involves transfusing specially prepared platelet units into a patient's bloodstream.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Treated:

• To prevent immune reactions in immunocompromised patients
• To reduce the risk of graft-versus-host disease in transfusion recipients

Goals:

• Provide necessary platelets for blood clotting
• Minimize the risk of immune complications

Indications

Symptoms and Conditions:

• Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy
• Patients undergoing bone marrow or stem cell transplants
• Patients with certain blood disorders

Criteria:

• Patients with compromised immune systems
• Patients who have had previous adverse reactions to platelet transfusions

Preparation

Instructions:

• No specific fasting required
• Patients might be advised to avoid certain medications that can affect blood clotting

Pre-procedure Assessments:

• Blood tests including complete blood count (CBC)
• Blood compatibility tests

Procedure Description

Steps:

1. A donor provides blood, which is then separated into components.
2. Platelets are isolated, and leukocytes are reduced using special filters or methods.
3. The platelet concentrate is irradiated to deactivate white blood cells that could cause an immune reaction.
4. The prepared platelet unit is transfused into the patient's bloodstream via an intravenous (IV) line.

Equipment:

• Blood collection and separation devices
• Leukocyte-reduction filters
• Irradiation machines

Anesthesia:

• Typically, no anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

• The transfusion process usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes per unit.

Setting

• Typically performed in a hospital or outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Transfusion specialist or hematologist
• Nurses trained in blood transfusion procedures

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Mild allergic reactions (hives, itching)
• Fever or chills

Rare Complications:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease
• Infection if not properly screened

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Improved platelet count and blood clotting ability
• Reduced risk of transfusion-related immune reactions

Timeframe:

• Benefits are typically realized within a few hours post-transfusion.

Recovery

Post-procedure Care:

• Monitoring for any immediate adverse reactions
• Regular blood tests to monitor platelet levels

Recovery Time:

• Patients can often resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.
• Specific restrictions or follow-up appointments might be advised based on individual cases.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Standard platelet transfusion (non-irradiated, non-leukocyte reduced)
• Use of platelet growth factors

Pros and Cons:

• Standard transfusions: Easier availability but higher risk of immune reactions.
• Platelet growth factors: Can be effective but slower and more expensive.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Patients may feel a slight discomfort at the IV site.
• They should remain still during the transfusion to ensure proper flow.

Post-procedure:

• Patients might feel mild fatigue.
• Pain management typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.

Comfort Measures:

• Nurses will ensure the patient's comfort throughout the procedure, providing blankets and hydration if needed.