Frozen Red Blood Cells

Frozen Red Blood Cells (RBCs) are a specialized blood product prepared by adding a cryoprotectant, typically glycerol, to red cells and storing them at ultra-low temperatures (e.g., -65°C to -80°C). This process allows for long-term storage of up to 10 years, significantly extending the shelf life compared to standard refrigerated RBCs, which expire after 42 days. Before transfusion, the units must be thawed and washed (deglycerolized) to remove the cryoprotectant. Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) conducted clinical research (NCT01605370) to evaluate the safety and efficacy of frozen RBCs compared to standard refrigerated RBCs of varying ages in trauma patients. The primary therapeutic goal is the restoration of oxygen-carrying capacity and tissue oxygenation in patients suffering from acute blood loss and anemia.

Other names

Frozen RBCsCryopreserved Red Blood Cells