The efficiency and safety of recombinant factor VIIa for bleeding in patients without haemophilia: a meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials
Abstract Background: Recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) is widely used for off-label indications to control bleeding and reduce blood transfusion. However, the efficacy and safety of rFVIIa for bleeding in patients without haemophilia are uncertain and worthy of further study. This meta-analysis has been updated to incorporate recent trial data.Methods: We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PUBMED, EMBASE and other medical databases up to 20 July 2019. The results of this work are synthetized and reported in accordance with the PRISMA statement.Results: Twelve trials met our inclusion criteria. High dose rFVIIa reduced the requirements of red cell transfusion (mean difference [MD], -232.34; 95% confidence interval [CI]; -448.33 to 234.89). rFVIIa did not significantly affect mortality (relative risk[RR], 1.00;95%CI, 0.82–1.21), total thromboembolic events (RR, 1.13; 95%CI, 0.94–1.36), myocardial infarction (RR, 1.37; 95%CI, 0.92–2.05), deep vein thrombosis (RR, 0.83; 95%CI, 0.52–1.33), ICU-stay (RR, 0.40; 95%CI, -1.28 to 2.07) and numbers of patients for red cell transfusion (RR, 0.94; 95%CI, 0.83-1.08). However, it may increase the incidence of arterial events (RR, 1.38; 95%CI, 1.08–1.77).Conclusion: High dose rFVIIa is effective to reduce the need of red cell transfusion for bleeding in patients without haemophilia. However, it may increase the risk of arterial events.