Abstract: The present invention provides an aqueous composition for storage of red blood cells consisting essentially of: adenine; dextrose; at least one non-metabolizable membrane-protectant sugar; and a specifically defined pH buffering system. Also provided are improved methods for preserving red blood cells and methods for increasing the viability, membrane retention, and recoverability while suppressing apoptosis, hemolysis, and post-reinfusion clearance of stored red blood cells which utilize the novel compositions.

Abstract: The present invention provides an aqueous composition for storage of red blood cells consisting essentially of: adenine; dextrose; at least one nonmetabolizable membrane-protectant sugar; and a specifically defined pH buffering system. Also provided are improved methods for preserving red blood cells and methods for increasing the viability, membrane retention, and recoverability while suppressing apoptosis, hemolysis, and post-reinfusion clearance of stored red blood cells which utilize the novel compositions.

Abstract: The present invention provides an aqueous composition for storage of red blood cells consisting essentially of: adenine; dextrose; at least one nonmetabolizable membrane-protectant sugar; and a specifically defined pH buffering system. Also provided are improved methods for preserving red blood cells and methods for increasing the viability, membrane retention, and recoverability while suppressing apoptosis, hemolysis, and post-reinfusion clearance of stored red blood cells which utilize the novel compositions.

Abstract: The present invention provides an aqueous composition for storage of red blood cells consisting essentially of: adenine; dextrose; at least one nonmetabolizable membrane-protectant sugar; and a specifically defined pH buffering system. Also provided are improved methods for preserving red blood cells and methods for increasing the viability, membrane retention, and recoverability while suppressing apoptosis, hemolysis, and post-reinfusion clearance of stored red blood cells which utilize the novel compositions.

Abstract: The present invention provides an aqueous composition for storage of red blood cells consisting essentially of: adenine; dextrose; at least one nonmetabolizable membrane-protectant sugar; and a specifically defined pH buffering system. Also provided are improved methods for preserving red blood cells and methods for increasing the viability, membrane retention, and recoverability while suppressing apoptosis, hemolysis, and post-reinfusion clearance of stored red blood cells which utilize the novel compositions.

Abstract: Novel additive solutions useful for the storage of human red blood cells (RBCs) under refrigerated conditions are disclosed. Also disclosed is a method of using the additive solutions in an appropriate volume to preserve RBCs at about 1 to 6° C. for up to at least about 11 weeks or more. Additive solutions and processes in accordance with the present invention allow the viable storage of human RBCs for an extended period of time in a solution which is directly infusible in humans.

Abstract: Novel additive solutions useful for the storage of human red blood cells (RBCs) under refrigerated conditions are disclosed. Also disclosed is a method of using the additive solutions in an appropriate volume to preserve RBCs at about 1 to 6.degree. C. for up to 10 weeks. Additive solutions and processes in accordance with the present invention allow the viable storage of human RBCs for an extended period of time in a solution which is directly infusible in humans.

Abstract: A device and method for preventing transfusion of incompatible blood comprises a means for performing the following procedures. Upon admission to the hospital, a rapid blood type test is performed in the presence of the patient and, immediately thereafter, a wrist band with a key or other releasing means corresponding to the patient's blood type is secured to the patient's wrist. A locking mechanism is provided on all blood bags in the blood bank at the time of the blood donation which corresponds to the blood type contained in the bag and is color coded. Blood is dispatched from the blood bank for a patient upon request after the usual crossmatching. Upon arrival at the patient's location, the bag is unlocked using the key attached to the patient's wrist band and the blood transfusion is administered.