Optimizing Packed Red Blood Cell Transfusions: Viscosity, Volume, and Time

Author: Atlas G.M.

Source: Cardiovascular Engineering: An International Journal, Volume 3, Number 3, September 2003 , pp. 117-121(5)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

A straightforward formula, <IMG SRC="http://images.ingentaselect.com/absimages/klu/15678822/klu_care_2003_3_3_476257h.1.gif" ALT="V = \left(\frac{H{\kern.5pt}_{\rm i}\cdot b}{2}-1\right) \cdot V_{\rm i}," TEXT="a mathematical formula"> which minimizes the product of transfusion time and volume has been derived. V_i represents the initial volume of the packed red blood cells (PRBCs) whereas H_i represents their initial hematocrit. The coefficient b is based upon an approximate exponential representation of viscosity as a function of added volume V and H_i. This formula allows for the minimization of both the volume of diluent, added to a known volume of PRBCs, as well as a minimization of the transfusion time.

Keywords: transfusion; viscosity; blood; hemodilution; hypervolemia

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/B:CARE.0000015160.52668.2f

Affiliations: 1: Department of Anesthesiology, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey

Publication date: 2003-09-01