Massive transfusion: a current review

Abstract

The use of blood products has come under closer scrutiny over the past decade because of the autoimmune deficiency syndrome. Newer technology has led to the use of component therapy in most situations. The use of fresh-frozen plasma has been overstated in the older literature, and fresh-frozen plasma should be used in specifically indicated situations. On the other hand platelets and fibrinogen (via cyroprecipitate) may be underutilized in patients undergoing massive transfusions. The modern clinician must have a keen awareness of the indications of various transfusion modalities so that patients will receive the maximum benefit with minimal risk.