Vox sanguinis
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While blood is flowing within a transfusion-warming device, the blood temperature is usually less than that applied externally. If the flow is temporarily stopped, the temperature can rise above 37 degrees C in some warming devices. We sought to determine whether temperatures near 45 degrees C achieved during prolonged non-flow conditions in a blood warmer are harmful to red cell integrity. ⋯ We conclude that elevated temperatures achieved during temporary cessation of flow in the Augustine Medical, Inc., 241 Fluid Warming Set for as long as 30 min do not cause notable hemolysis or other damage to red cells.
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Comparative Study
Immunomodulating effect of blood transfusion: is storage time important?
TNF-alpha and IL-2 are important cytokines in macrophage and T-lymphocyte activity against infection and dissemination of malignant cells. We studied the influence of supernatants from stored whole blood and buffy-coat-depleted SAGM (saline, adenine, glucose and mannitol) blood in stimulating TNF-alpha and IL-2 release in an ex vivo assay. ⋯ Recipient cytokine release induced by blood transfusion seems to be dependent on storage time. This may have implications in transfusion-induced immune modulation.
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The infectiousness and clinical relevance of the newly discovered blood-borne Flaviviridae-like agent, termed hepatitis G virus (HGV), are not well understood. ⋯ The persistence of transfusion-acquired HGV infection is not associated with acute or chronic hepatitis, but may be influenced by the recipient's underlying disease.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Lactated Ringer's solution versus hydroxyethyl starch for volume replacement in autologous blood donors with cardiovascular disease: a controlled, randomized trial.
The study was designed to evaluate whether volume replacement following blood donation can prevent arterial hypotension in autologous blood donors with cardiovascular disease. ⋯ Both LRS and HES, administered at a volume ratio to blood loss of 3:1 and 1:1, respectively, significantly reduced the incidence of systolic hypotensive episodes in autologous blood donors with cardiovascular disease. LRS at a 3:1 volume ratio to blood loss was associated with a high rate of systolic hypertension.
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Although we still do not know enough about the influence of anaemia and transfusion on outcomes for the surgical patient, it is possible to develop a general consensus about many aspects of management. A quality programme to improve consistency of practice in these consensus areas is feasible. (Table 6) This should be linked with further randomised trials to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of alternative regimes.