Automated method for exchange transfusion.

Automated method for exchange transfusion Sir, In their report (Archives, 1972, 47, 815) M. G. Philpott and A. Banerjee presented a technique of exchange transfusion based on the use of a Holter infusion pump with two channels connected to umbilical vein and artery. In 1971 we (Garofalo, Minerva, and Baltieri, 1971) described a method of exchange transfusion by means of Holter microinfusion rolling pump; this method was considered by us as a further modification of exchange transfusion 'by continuous drip' suggested by Valentine (1962, 1966) and, in Italy, by Cavalieri (1963), Cavalieri, Garofalo, and Mastella (1963), and Cavalieri, Mastella, and Battaglino (1967). In our paper we suggested connecting one circuit of the pump with a catheter inserted in the umbilical vein (for blood withdrawal) and the second channel to a scalp or arm vein for blood transfusion, since connexion with umbilical artery may be difficult or a source of complications in some cases, as described by the authors. E. GAROFALO Department of Paediatrics, Hospital of Zevio, Verona, Italy.