Do latex precautions in children with myelodysplasia reduce intraoperative allergic reactions?

Patrick K Birmingham*, Richard Dsida, John J Grayhack, Jianping Han, Melissa Wheeler, Jacqueline A Pongracic, Charles J. Coté, Steven C Hall

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

44 Scopus citations

Abstract

Children with myelodysplasia have an increased incidence of latex allergy, which can lead to severe intraoperative allergic reactions. Despite widespread recommendations to avoid intraoperative latex exposure, little evidence exists to support the efficacy of this practice. We examined the incidence of intraoperative allergic reactions in children with myelodysplasia who underwent 1,025 operations in a 36-month period before and after institution of a standardized latex-avoidance protocol. Risk factors for all intraoperative reaction were found to be a history of latex allergy (p = 0.001) and surgery performed before institution of the latex-avoidance protocol (p = 0.01). The estimate of increased risk for allergic reaction was 3.09 times higher in cases performed without latex avoidance. Recognized violation of the protocol after its institution led to severe allergic reactions in three patients. Our experience suggests that a latex avoidance protocol reduces intraoperative allergic reactions in children with myelodysplasia. Development of severe allergic reactions with violation of the protocol reinforces the importance of vigilance on the part of all operating room personnel in its implementation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)799-802
Number of pages4
JournalJournal of Pediatric Orthopaedics
Volume16
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 1996

Keywords

  • Latex allergy
  • Myelodysplasia
  • Pediatric anesthesia
  • Spina bifida

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

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