Blood Processor for Donated Blood

The objectives of this project are to develop an improved process for red cell glycerolization prior to freezing utilizing a closed, sterile disposable set. This Set is coupled to an actuation and monitoring system that provides fully automatic, well-controlled, consistent operation. The hemolysis from the glycerolizing process will be reduced to improve red cell recovery and shorten the deglycerolization process. Closed, sterile glycerolization is necessary for the desired long-term storage of deglycerolized red cells. Automated deglycerolization systems and improved fluid mixing methods and devices developed by us will be modified and special disposable sets will be fabricated to test and demonstrate the feasibility of automatic, closed glycerolization. BENEFITS: The benefits are reduced hemolysis and red cell; more consistent results; reduced user time, training, and costs; and closed, sterile procedures. Sterile glycerolization is critical to the military blood program because it permits long-term refrigerated storage of deglycerolized red cells, with major logistical advantages. Commercial applications include emergency use and long-term storage of autologous or rare blood types.