Abstract: Objective To explore how various pressures affect the quality of red blood cells in suspension, and to offer data assistance for the creation of pressurized blood transfusion apparatus. Methods Five groups were randomly selected from the 25 bags of suspended erythrocytes, and pressures of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 Kpa were applied to each group respectively. The blood flow rate was recorded in real time. Before and after the pressure application, blood samples were obtained to look for changes in erythrocyte-related indices (RBC, HGB, HCT, MCV, MCH, MCHC). The content of potassium ion, indirect bilirubin, lactate dehydrogenase, and free haemoglobin in plasma were detected. The osmotic fragility was tested, and the morphology was observed. Finally, the effects of different pressures on blood quality were evaluated. Results The transfusion rate can be considerably raised by pressurization. The alterations in K⁺, IBIL, and LDH indices as well as erythrocyte-related indexes under various pressures did not show statistically significant changes. Free haemoglobin and haemolysis rate were in accordance with the national regulations. Certain heterogeneous erythrocytes with rising pressure, variations in the cytomembrane's electron density, disruption of the reticulum's structure, and reticulum inhomogeneity were seen using electron microscopy. Conclusion The brief duration pressure, within the range of 50 Kpa, does not significantly result in red blood cell destruction, and the blood quality can meet Chinese norms.

Key words: Pressurized blood transfusion, Red blood cells, Blood quality