Blood transportation using multi-vehicle systems; optimal blood transport temperature in terms of hemolysis

Abstract

Recently, the use of drones has been proposed for blood transportation. Therefore, in this review, we first detailed the history of blood storage and transportation for red blood cell transfusion, and then presented ideas for creating rules to improve the safety of blood transportation, based on the idea that hemolysis is the problem for blood quality. In particular, it touches on the current logistics of blood transportation in which public transportation is not used, including the recent use of drones to transport blood, and points out the problems with this system. We discuss how instances of improper red blood cell transportation with inadequate temperature control are still observed, and that temperature control, vibration remain the major hindrances to appropriate blood transportation. Therefore, a set of rules that will contribute to appropriate and rapid blood transportation is warranted. Moreover, there are notable differences in blood storage rule between Japan and the US and UK, and there is no legal transportation rule in Japan. Based on our review and experience, we think that basic temperature control at 2–6°C should always be maintained to prevent blood deterioration even if unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) technologies are available.