Recombinant Activated Factor VII: Current Perspectives and Epworth Experience

Recombinant factor VII was first developed for control and prevention of bleeding in haemophilia with antibodies to factor VIII and IX. Its efficacy in these situations is well established. Over recent years, the ‘off-label’ use of this substance has become more widespread in trauma, surgery and obstetric bleeding. Here we describe the mechanism of action of recombinant factor VII, review current literature of ‘off-label’ usage and our initial experience in surgical related cases of bleeding at Epworth Hospital.