Autologous blood patch for persistent air leak in children

PurposePersistent air leak (PAL) is associated with increased morbidity. Standard treatment of PAL includes chemical or mechanical pleurodesis. Long-term impact of these interventions is not known in the pediatric population. Autologous blood patch (ABP) offers a novel treatment option. We report our experience with autologous blood patch to successfully treat PAL in eight children.MethodsChildren with PAL were treated with ABP. A fresh whole blood sample was obtained from each patient and injected via their pre-existing chest tube. Volume of blood injected, time to cessation of air leak, time to chest tube removal, outcomes and complications were reviewed.ResultsEight children aged 2 months to 18 years underwent ABP. Three children had immediate seal of air leak, while two patients sealed after 1 and 2 days. Three patients required a second ABP, after which they had immediate seal of air leak. Chest tubes were removed within 2–3 days in 7 cases. One child developed an asymptomatic pneumothorax and required 8 days for radiographic resolution.ConclusionABP appears to be a safe and effective treatment option for PAL in children. ABP offers an inexpensive, easy to perform technique and avoids use of toxic chemicals for pleurodesis in pediatric patients.