Multicenter comparison of emergency release group A versus AB plasma in blunt-injured trauma patients

Introduction: Group AB plasma, the traditional universal donor plasma product, is a limited resource. We compared outcomes of Group A plasma transfusion in comparison to AB.

Methods: Analysis of blunt-injured patients who received emergency release plasma from was performed. Multivariable logistic regression was utilized to identify associations with morbidity and mortality.

Results: There were 191 patients; 115 Group A and 76 Group AB. No differences were seen in age, sex, plasma transfusions, uncrossmatched red blood cells (RBCs), and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). Patients who received Group A plasma had significantly lower Injury Severity Score, chest Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS), and scene transfer rate but not head AIS, or abdomen AIS. In addition, significant differences were noted in terms of blood products transfused within 24 hours in those receiving Group A over AB. Development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), but not mortality, was higher within the AB cohort. No hemolytic or transfusion associated-ARDS reactions were noted in either group. ARDS; RBC transfusion volumes and head AIS were independently associated with mortality.

Conclusion: Utilization of Group A plasma for emergency blood resuscitation is a safe option which may alleviate potential shortages of AB plasma.