exchange transfusion
Procedure removing and replacing patient's blood to treat severe hyperbilirubinemia or hemolytic disease.
Full Definition
A therapeutic procedure that involves the gradual removal of a patient's blood while simultaneously replacing it with compatible donor blood, typically removing and replacing 85-90% of the blood volume. In neonates, exchange transfusion is primarily performed for severe hyperbilirubinemia when phototherapy is insufficient, or for hemolytic disease of the newborn. The procedure reduces bilirubin levels, removes circulating antibodies, corrects anemia, and removes damaged red blood cells while providing healthy donor cells.
Usage
Usage note: Use specific volume terminology (double-volume exchange); document pre- and post-procedure bilirubin levels.
In Context
- "Due to bilirubin levels exceeding 25 mg/dL, an emergency exchange transfusion was performed." — Emergency procedure note
- "The exchange transfusion successfully reduced total bilirubin from 28 to 12 mg/dL." — Post-procedure assessment