OBJECTIVE(S): To compare the efficacy of partial exchange transfusion and whole blood/packed cell transfusion in improving oxygen carrying capacity in severely anaemic patients with/without cardiac failure.

METHODS(S): These patients were randomly divided into two groups: –

Group A: Study group, partial exchange transfusion with 2 units of whole blood was done.

Group B: Control group, transfusion of 2 unit of whole blood/packed cell volume was done at interval of 24 hours.

RESULTS: The rise in Sp0₂ beyond 96% was observed immediately after partial exchange transfusion in 89% CASES as compared to only 7% in CONTROLS. The pulse rate settled from average of 126/min before transfusion to 100/min after transfusion in CASE group, whereas there was no obvious difference in pulse rate in CONTROL GROUP even after 30 hours of transfusion. The respiratory rate settled to near normal in CASE group within 60 minutes whereas no obvious difference was seen in CONTROL group even after 30 hours. Haemoglobin rise of 1.04 gm% was noted in all CASES within 60 minutes, compared to negligible rise in the CONTROLS even after 30 Hrs. No major complications like overloading or haemolytic reaction was noted in either group, but comparatively reduced hospital stay, less daily wages loss of their husbands and immediate improvement in quality of life made the partial exchange transfusion a much superior method.

CONCLUSION:Partial exchange transfusion was a superior method in improving Hb % & hence Sp0_2, settling pulse rate & respiratory rate &cost effectively improving the quality of life compared to whole blood/packed cell transfusion