Korean J Blood Transfus.  2024 Apr;35(1):14-26. 10.17945/kjbt.2024.35.1.1 4.

The Use of Whole Blood and Low Titer Group O Whole Blood in Managing Emergency and Trauma Patients

• Lim HJ
• Cho D
• Park CY
• Kim TY

• KMID: 2555555
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.17945/kjbt.2024.35.1.1 4

Abstract

Since the mid-2000s, massive blood transfusion protocols and damage control resuscitation have improved the prognosis of trauma patients. As a part of damage control resuscitation, whole blood transfusion, especially using low titer group O whole blood (LTOWB), has been widely accepted in both military and civilian trauma settings based on its safety and significant advantages in terms of efficiency and efficacy. To implement LTOWB effectively, each institution should establish relevant policies which should simultaneously consider safety and accessibility factors, including titer threshold, blood management, blood supply, and transfusion protocols for LTOWB. These policies will need to be revised through continuous audits and monitoring. Additionally, whole blood and LTOWB may benefit hemorrhagic patients in non-trauma contexts, or in rural and pre-hospital settings. Further supporting evidence for these applications is needed.

Keyword

Whole blood; Universal blood; Low titer group O whole blood; Transfusion