Blood Transfusion Services

Transfusion services have been developed specifically for people with sickle cell disease.

Chronic blood transfusions

About 15 percent of children with sickle cell disease at Children's Hospital are on chronic transfusions. Chronic blood transfusions are provided to prevent recurrence of stroke in a child who has already experienced stroke or to avoid stroke in a child who has been determined to be at risk for stroke. They are usually given every three to four weeks. 

Some people with sickle cell disease receive chronic transfusions to reduce the number of painful episodes or the risk of recurrent acute chest syndrome and other complications. 

When possible, blood is used from a special blood donor program developed at Children's Hospital in cooperation with the American Red Cross, Penn-Jersey Region. Simple transfusions are provided through the Hematology & Oncology Day Hospital 3rd floor of the Buerger Center for Advanced Pediatric Care on the Raymond G. Perelman Campus. Erythrocytapheresis (apheresis) is an automated exchange transfusion, given on the Apheresis Unit on the 2nd floor of the Buerger Center. It is the preferred method of transfusion for those on chronic transfusions to avoid iron accumulation.

For more information, please contact our center at 215-590-3423 or by email sicklecellcenter@email.chop.edu.