Comparing unbalanced and balanced ratios of blood products in massive transfusion to pediatric trauma patients: effects on mortality and outcomes

Background The utilization and impact of various ratios of transfusions for pediatric trauma patients (PTPs) receiving a massive transfusion (MT) are unknown. Therefore, we sought to determine the risk for mortality in PTPs receiving an MT of ≥ 6 units of packed red blood cells (PRBC) within 24 h. We compared PRBC: plasma ratio of > 2:1 (Unbalanced Ratios, UR) versus ≤ 2:1 (Balanced Ratios, BR), hypothesizing decreased risk of mortality with BR. Methods The Trauma Quality Improvement Program was queried (2014–2016) for PTPs receiving a MT. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine risk of mortality. Results From 239 PTPs receiving an MT, 98 (41%) received an UR, whereas 141 (59%) received a BR. The median ratios, respectively, were 2.7:1 and 1.2:1. Compared to BR patients, UR patients had no differences in injury severity score (ISS), hypotension on admission, and intensive care unit stay (all p > 0.05). The mortality rates for BR and UR were similar (46.1% vs. 52.0%, p = 0.366). Controlling for age, ISS, and severe head injury, UR demonstrated similar risk of mortality compared to BR ( p = 0.276). Additionally, ≥ 4:1 ratio versus ≤ 2:1 showed no difference in associated risk of mortality ( p = 0.489). Conclusion In contrast to adult studies, this study demonstrated that MT ratios of > 2:1 and even ≥ 4:1 were associated with similar mortality compared to BR for PTPs. These results suggest pediatric MT resuscitation may not require strict BR as has been shown beneficial in adult trauma patients. Future prospective studies are needed to evaluate the optimal ratio for PTP MT resuscitation. Level of evidence III; Retrospective Care Management Study.