Effects of Drotrecogin Alfa on Filter Survival in Severe Sepsis Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Camporota Luigi, Corno Eleonora, Menaldo Eleonora, Smith John, Lei Katie, Beale Richard, Wyncoll Duncan
Primary Institution: Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
Hypothesis
Does the administration of Drotrecogin alfa (activated) during renal replacement therapy affect filter survival time and the requirement for blood products in patients with severe sepsis?
Conclusion
The use of Drotrecogin alfa in patients with severe sepsis requiring renal replacement therapy is safe and does not increase the need for packed red cell transfusion.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients receiving Drotrecogin alfa did not have a significantly increased need for packed red cell transfusion.
- The filter survival time was similar during and after Drotrecogin alfa infusion.
- Additional anticoagulation during Drotrecogin alfa infusion did not improve filter survival time.
Takeaway
This study found that giving a medicine called Drotrecogin alfa to very sick patients on kidney machines is safe and doesn't make them need more blood.
Methodology
A single-centre, retrospective observational study analyzing data from 35 patients with severe sepsis who received both renal replacement therapy and Drotrecogin alfa.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the retrospective nature of the study and the variability in clinical practice regarding anticoagulation.
Limitations
The study is retrospective and based on a small number of patients, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Patients had a mean age of 65 years, with 23 males and 12 females, and included both medical and surgical patients.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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