Abstract: Objective The sodium chloride (NaCl) solution used for the preparation of frozen thawed glycerolized red blood cells (RBCs) was replaced by sodium citrate and glycine solutions. The quality of washed RBCs was analyzed. Methods Ten bags of suspended leukocyte-depleted RBCs collected within 7 days were selected, glycerolized and prepared into frozen RBCs, and stored at -80℃±5℃ for 6 months. They were divided into control group and experimental group, each group 10 bags. In the control group, the original preparation method was used. In the experimental group, the 9% NaCl in the first washing was replaced by 18.75% glycine solution, and the 0.9% NaCl in the second and subsequent washing solution was replaced by 2.58% sodium citrate solution. The preparation time of the two groups was recorded, and the quality indexes were compared and analyzed. Results The preparation time of glycerol removal from frozen thawed RBCs was shortened by improved methods. Compared with the control group, there was no significant difference in the recovery rate of RBCs (P >0.05). The contents of free hemoglobin and residual glycerin in supernatant decreased, with statistical significance (P< 0.05). The levels of ATP and 2, 3-DPG were significantly increased, with statistical significance (P<0.05). Conclusion By improved preparation method of frozen deglycerolized RBCs, the quality of RBCs can be stable and optimized. This method can further improve the safety, effectiveness and timeliness of blood transfusion for patients.

Key words: Frozen red blood cells, Sodium citrate, Glycine, Hemolysis ratio, Percent recovery