Hemodynamics in neonates with polycythemia before and after partial exchange transfusion: an observational study

IntroductionThe current recommendations for the management of neonatal polycythemia are that partial exchange transfusion (PET) should be performed if the hematocrit is >70% in an asymptomatic neonate, or if the haematocrit is >65% in a symptomatic neonate. The hemodynamic effects of PET for neonatal polycythemia have not been well researched.ObjectivesTo evaluate the hemodynamic effects of PET in neonates with polycythemia.MethodologyProspective observational study conducted in a neonatal intensive care unit of a tertiary care teaching hospital enrolling 21 neonates with polycythemia who underwent PET. Hemodynamic and echocardiographic parameters were obtained prior to PET and 6 h after procedure.ResultsThe mean gestational age of neonates with polycythemia was 35.08 ± 2.35 weeks with a mean birth weight of 1,929 ± 819.2 g. There was a significant improvement noted in heart rate and oxygen saturation post PET procedure (p