The Science Behind Blood Transfusion



As complicated it may sound, blood transfusion is a common practice in the medical world. Anyone with the need of blood can receive it through an intravenous (IV) tube in one of the blood vessels. This practice has increased the odds of a patient’s survival in case of loss of blood due to an accident or an illness.

 The tube is connected to the blood vessels through a needle and the process lasts anywhere from 1-4 hours. A scalp vein set may be used in addition to administering drugs to save the life of the patient.
Type of Transfusion

Depending on the requirement of the patient, blood may be transfused in totality or individual components like blood cells and platelets maybe be transferred.

1. Platelets – clotting factor transfusions and platelets prevent from the blood from flowing out of the body after a point. Some diseases like Dengue lead to the reduction of platelets and the patient is exposed to the risk of death due to excessive bleeding. Patients with hemophilia also require platelet transfusion.

 2. Red Blood Cells (RBCs) – they provide oxygen to the organs and tissue of your body from the lungs which make this type one of the most important. This is particularly administered to people with anemia (a condition with lower than usual red blood cells in the blood).

 3. Plasma – the liquid part of the blood which contains vitamins, proteins, cholesterol, calcium, sugar, potassium and other essential substances is known as plasma. Patients with failing livers or severe burns require plasma transfusion.

 Risks

 1. Blood transfusion can lead to infections that can seriously affect the patient. The reaction may manifest in the form of a skin rash, fever or even life-threatening situations. Allergic reactions may cause anxiety, chest/back pain, breathing trouble, low blood pressure, nausea and other problems as well.

 2. Repetitive blood transfusion may lead to excessive iron despots in the body consequently leading to organ or tissue injury.

 3. Transfusion-associated circulatory overload (TACO)

 4. Transfusing associated lung injury (TILI)

 5. In rare cases, if the blood of a person with an incompatible blood group is transfused to the patient, the consequence will be acute renal failure or even respiratory collapse.


Blood donation is a common voluntary practice. The blood is subjected to extensive tests to prevent the transfer of blood-bourne infections. Hepatitis B & C and HIV are common diseases transferred through this practice. Doctors go through rigorous training so that such diseases are not transferred while carrying out medical procedures. You can easily get medical equipment such as transfusion tubes and Romson’s Nelaton Catheter among other equipment online for your convenience.

Location: E-46/10, Pocket D, Okhla Phase II, Okhla Industrial Area, New Delhi, Delhi 110020, India

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