Viability of AS-3 and SAG-M red cells stored in plastic syringes for pediatric transfusion.

Background: Pediatric patients may require small-volume transfusions necessitating splitting of red cell (RBC) units. This process usually involves temporary storage of aliquots in pediatric blood bags or, in some cases, plastic syringes, until they are transfused. While many studies have been published on the efficacy of storage in blood bags, there is little evidence to show that RBCs are safe and effective for transfusion after separation into plastic syringe aliquots.