Transport of Red Blood Cell Concentrates and Fresh Frozen Plasma in a Pneumatic Tube System

Abstract

Background: A new pneumatic tube system to transport red blood cell concentrates (RBCC) and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) was to be evaluated, followed by integration into the quality management system. Material and Methods: First, with the pneumatic tube system we transported 12 RBCC on day 35 after production. We estimated hemoglobin, hemolysis rate, ATP, potassium, LDH and lactate of the RBCC before and after transportation. In a second experiment, we transported 12 RBCC on day 10 after production. We tested these 12 RBCC for hemolysis rate, potassium and ATP, and compared them to 12 RBCC of the control group on days 10, 20, 30, and 35 after production. At the end of storage, all were tested for bacterial contamination. 36 FFP units were transported in frozen state over the same distance. Upon thawing, the samples were tested for factor VIII, antithrombin activity, and sterility. Results: The pneumatic tube transport of RBCC at the end of their usability and on day 10 after production including storage did not lead to any significant differences with regard to the tested parameters before and after transport. Factor VIII and antithrombin activities in all FFP units were between 70–100%. All 36 FFP were sterile and not damaged by the transportation. Conclusion: Transport of RBCC and FFP in a pneumatic tube did not have any negative effect on the quality and storage stability of the products. By using this pneumatic tube system, blood products can be transported safely, fast and efficiently within a clinical center.