Storage injury and blood transfusions in trauma patients

Abstract

Purpose of review: The aim of the present review was to concisely summarize recent studies and current knowledge about effects of red blood cell storage injury in trauma patients.

Recent findings: Despite a pathophysiological rationale for older packed red blood cells (PRBCs) being associated with adverse events in the host organism, recent large clinical trials failed to show negative effects of transfusion with older PRBCs on clinically relevant outcomes in mixed patient population. However, there is a lack of well-designed randomized controlled trials focusing on the effects of storage lesion of PRBCs in trauma patients.

Summary: In the absence of specific evidence for trauma patients, we recommend to continue with a conservative transfusion regime and standard of care blood banking practice of using older PRBCs first.