CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS OF BLOOD SUBSTITUTES

Red cell substitutes are developing rapidly and progressing in their c linical testing. The original concept of a shelf storable oxygen carry ing solution for use in trauma and other emergency situations still re mains valid. Of interest is the potential for red cell substitutes to be used in other areas of surgery, traditionally the realm of autologo us transfusion This article describes some of the logic behind definin g which areas of application are potentially useful in the surgical ar ena.