[Perfluorochemicals as artificial blood. problems and actual development (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Context:

• Perfluorochemicals exhibit unique gas-carrying capacity and inertness.
• Advances in emulsion technology have spurred interest in fluorocarbons for medical applications.
• Potential uses extend beyond blood loss treatment.

Purpose:

• To review the current state and potential of perfluorochemical blood substitutes.
• To highlight areas requiring further research and development.

Summary:

• Perfluorochemicals are effective oxygen and carbon dioxide carriers, insoluble in water, and chemically stable.
• They can be formulated as sterile, pyrogen-free emulsions.
• Recent research indicates growing interest in their medical and biological applications.

Impact:

• Fluorocarbons offer a promising alternative for blood substitutes, particularly in severe blood loss scenarios.
• Further investigation into reticuloendothelial system storage and clotting factor interactions is crucial.
• Optimistic outlook for fluorocarbons in clinical practice.