GUIDELINES FOR THE USE OF FRESH-FROZEN PLASMA

Fresh frozen plasma should only be used to treat bleeding episodes or prepare patients for surgery in certain defined situations. Definite indications for the use of FFP 1 Replacement of single coagulation factor deficiencies, where a specific or combined factor concentrate is unavailable. 2 Immediate reversal of warfarin effect. 3 Acute disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). 4 Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). (Conditional uses: FFP only indicated in the presence of bleeding and disturbed coagulation 1 Massive transfusion. 2 Liver disease. 3 Cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. 4 Special paediatric indications. No justification for the use of FFP 1 Hypovolaemia. 2 Plasma exchange procedures. 3 'Formula' replacement. 4 Nutritional support. 5 Treatment of immunodeficiency states.