[Correction of plasma hemoglobin measurements in calculating a hemolysis index]

Abstract

A "haemolysis index" may be defined from plasma haemoglobin concentration. This is useful in evaluating the consequences of the artificial kidneys and lungs (pumps and circuitry). Measurements must be taken repeatedly, and corrections made for variations in plasma volume from standard conditions (haematocrit or total haemoglobin) to obtain meaningful comparisons. The "haemolysis index" must take into account the number of passages through the circuit.