Alterations in blood components during storage and their clinical significance.

Storage-dependent changes in blood and components as affecting a patient with acute haemorrhage are described. With currently used preservatives and additives blood qualifies as "fresh" for two weeks after collection. Modified red cell concentrates are the optimal form of initial haemotherapy, with the possible exception of massive blood transfusion. Availability of platelet concentrates and other haemostatic blood components as routinely issued by a modern blood bank should meet almost all requirements for an acutely bleeding patient.