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Effect of parachute delivery on red blood cell (RBC) and plasma quality measures of blood for transfusion
Author(s) -
Bates Mark,
Watts Sarah,
Doughty Heidi,
Woolley Tom,
Miles Andrew,
Barry Liam,
Jenner Dominic,
Sedman Andrew,
Purcell Robert,
Kirkman Emrys
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
transfusion
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.045
H-Index - 132
eISSN - 1537-2995
pISSN - 0041-1132
DOI - 10.1111/trf.16501
Subject(s) - fresh frozen plasma , red blood cell , whole blood , mannitol , blood transfusion , packed red blood cells , chemistry , medicine , surgery , platelet , biochemistry
Background Parachute airdrop offers a rapid transfusion supply option for humanitarian aid and military support. However, its impact on longer‐term RBC survival is undocumented. This study aimed to determine post‐drop quality of RBCs in concentrates (RCC), and both RBCs and plasma in whole blood (WB) during subsequent storage. Study design and methods Twenty‐two units of leucodepleted RCC in saline, adenine, glucose, mannitol (SAGM) and 22 units of nonclinical issue WB were randomly allocated for air transportation, parachute drop, and subsequent storage (parachute), or simply storage under identical conventional conditions (4 ± 2°C) (control). All blood products were 6–8 days post‐donation. Parachute units were packed into Credo Cubes, (Series 4, 16 L) inside a PeliCase (Peli 0350) and rigged as parachute delivery packs. Packs underwent a 4‐h tactical flight (C130 aircraft), then parachuted from 250 to 400 ft before ground recovery. The units were sampled aseptically before and after airdrop at weekly intervals. A range of assays quantified the RBC storage lesion and coagulation parameters. Results Blood units were maintained at 2–6°C and recovered intact after recorded ground impacts of 341–1038 m s −2 . All units showed a classical RBC storage lesion and increased RBC microparticles during 42 days of storage. Fibrinogen and clotting factors decreased in WB during storage. Nevertheless, no significant difference was observed between Control and Parachute groups. Air transportation and parachute delivery onto land did not adversely affect, or shorten, the shelf life of fresh RBCs or WB. Discussion Appropriately packaged aerial delivery by parachute can be successfully used for blood supply.