Session: 15-01-01: ASME International Undergraduate Research and Design Exposition

Paper Number: 151622

151622 - Performance Analysis of Fresh Whole Blood Transfusion Under High-Altitude and Low-Temperature Conditions 

Performance Analysis of Fresh Whole Blood Transfusion Under High-Altitude and Low-Temperature Conditions

The fresh whole blood transfusion kit provides a “walking blood bank” which enable on-site transfusions in emergencies, reducing mortality rates by 20-30% compared to traditional methods. However, these kits face significant challenges in low-temperature and high-altitude environments, including reduced blood flow, component failure, and freezing. This study investigates the performance of fresh whole blood transfusion kits under varying environmental conditions to address these challenges.

The research focuses on two critical factors affecting transfusion efficacy: temperature and altitude. Lower temperatures increase blood viscosity, potentially reducing flow rates below the ideal range of 90-200 mL/min and endangering patients' lives, particularly in battlefield conditions. Additionally, high altitudes have been shown to alter red blood cell morphology, with cells becoming swollen and deformed at elevations above 3000 meters. The deformability of the red blood cells can limit the ability of the blood to pass through capillaries smoothly. The thicker blood and different cell shape can then cause changes to the flow rate which in turn decreases the ability for a successful transfusion. Altitudes large effect on the viscosity and change in blood composition is important as this might explain why successful transfusion at high altitudes are more challenging.

Using an environmental chamber, we systematically evaluate the performance of blood transfusion kits across a range of temperatures and simulated altitudes. Altitude is adjusted by changing the pressure in the chamber. The study examines the relationship between altitude and volumetric flow rate, comparing experimental results with theoretical calculations. Additionally, we analyze the effects of temperature on dynamic viscosity and density, and their subsequent impact on flow rates.

This research aims to provide quantitative data on how temperature and altitude affect transfusion kit performance, offering insights into the relationship between environmental factors and blood flow dynamics. We expect to identify critical thresholds for effective transfusion in extreme conditions, which could lead to improvements in transfusion kit design and inform protocols for emergency medical care in high-altitude or cold-weather scenarios.

The findings of this study have the potential to further reduce mortality rates in challenging field conditions and pave the way for future investigations into adaptive transfusion systems for varying environmental conditions. By enhancing our understanding of how environmental factors impact the effectiveness of fresh whole-blood transfusion kits, this research contributes to improving critical emergency care in challenging settings, ultimately saving more lives in extreme environments.

Presenting Author: Andrea Riddle United States Military Academy

Presenting Author Biography: Andrea Riddle is a senior-year student at the United States Military Academy where she is pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. In her studies, Andrea is focusing on biomechanics and fluids while also furthering her knowledge in viscosity and transfusion of blood. Her interest in biomechanics stems from her goal of furthering development in prosthetics and overall improving people’s quality of life. After graduating from the Academy with an undergraduate degree and commissioning into the US Army, she intends to apply to graduate school to further her knowledge of biomechanics and help improve the field.

Authors:

Emine Foust US Military Academy
Andrea Riddle United States Military Academy