Autologous Frozen-thawed Blood Transfusion in the Bone Marrow Donors / 대한수혈학회지

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The cryopreservation of Red Blood Cells have been proved to have many advantages in western countries. However, in Korea, clinical application of frozen-thawed blood is still in its early stage. We tried autologous frozen-thawed blood transfusion and evaluated the effects and complications. METHODS: Nine units of whole blood were collected from the autologous (n=1) and allogeneic bone marrow donors (n=3) and made packed RBCs by a centrifugation method. We made frozen RBCs using high glycerol method and stored them in -80degrees C freezer for 1 month. Eight units of frozen RBCs were thawed and washed by Cobe spectra (Cobe, USA). Autologous transfusions were done to the patient and donors while the bone marrow collection procedures were in process for bone marrow transplantation and we carefully observed its effects and complications. RESULTS: The mean RBC recovery rate were 89.8% and the supernatant plasma hemoglobin, K+, LD, osmolality, and simulation test were satisfactory to the allowable limit. After transfusion, the hemoglobin value was significantly elevated being comparable to that of the fresh blood. A case showed mild hematuria related to this transfusion but soon it disappeared in a day. CONCLUSION: The autologous frozen-thawed blood transfusions were safe and as much effective as the fresh blood. It would be essential to have skillful techniques in post-thaw washing process.