Pre-transfusion furosemide for TACO

Transfusion-associated circulatory overload (TACO) is a condition where too much fluid accumulates in the lungs after a blood transfusion (BT). It results in difficult breathing and low oxygen levels. It is a common complication of transfusion (seen in 3% of patients) and can result in the need for longer hospital stays and more intensive medical treatment. The use of diuretics (water pills in an intravenous form) has been recommended to prevent TACO, but there are no studies to date. This pilot study aims to understand the challenges in doing a large multicenter randomized study and whether pre-transfusion diuretics in patients at high risk for TACO are effective. Adult inpatients 70 years or older receiving BT will be included. Either a diuretic or saline intravenous injection will be given immediately before transfusion. A computer will be used to randomize patients to diuretic or to saline. The primary outcome will be the ability to enroll 80 patients in 2 months and having complete protocol adherence in 80 percent of patients. We will also measure the occurrence of TACO, vital signs, tests used to detect heart failure, length of hospital stay, and need for more intensive medical care.

SKEATE, Robert

Canadian Blood Services

Small Project Funding Program

Ontario

$15,000