Neuropediatrics 2006; 210 - P160
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-946514

Human factor XIII reduces severe pleural effusion in children after open heart surgery

M Schroth 1, U Meißner 1, R Cesnjevar 2, W Rascher 1, J Klinge 3
  • 1Kinder- und Jugendklinik, Erlangen
  • 2Herzchirurgische Klinik, Erlangen
  • 3Kinderklinik, Fürth, D

Objective: Chylus effusions occur after open-heart surgery. Factor XIII (FXIII) is discussed being essential for wound healing. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate, if the application of FXIII results in a reduction of chylus.

Patients: Forty children with chylus effusions after open-heart surgery were reviewed. Twenty patients received a single dose of FXIII. A group of age and weight matched patients was used as control. The plasma level of FXIII, the amount of pleural effusion before and after the application, the total amount of fluid loss, and the period of hospitalization were analyzed.

Results: FXIII levels in plasma showed an inverse correlation with the fluid loss. Application of FXIII reduced the pleural effusion within the first 24 hours significantly. However, within 72h no difference in the amount of pleural effusion could be detected. The duration of hospitalization did not differ.

Conclusions: A single application of FXIII reduces the amount of chylus. This effect is detectable within the first day after application but does not alter the clinical outcome. Prospective clinical trials are necessary to determine further improvement of the outcome in children after open heart surgery by using FXIII.