The Story of Blood for Shock Resuscitation: How the Pendulum Swings

Whole blood transfusion (WBT) began in 1667 as a treatment for mental illness with predictably poor results. Its therapeutic utility and widespread use were initially limited by deficiencies in transfusion science and antisepsis. James Blundell, a British obstetrician, was recognized for the first allotransfusion in 1825. However, WBT did not become safe and therapeutic until the early 20th century with the advent of reliable equipment, sterilization and blood typing. The discovery of citrate preservation in World War I allowed a separation of donor from recipient and introduced the practice of blood banking.

Source: Journal of the American College of Surgeons - August 11, 2021 Category: Surgery Authors: Samuel P. Carmichael, Nicholas Lin, Meagan E. Evangelista, John B. Holcomb Tags: History Source Type: research