Performance Study of Anticoagulants and Animal Blood for Establishment of In Vitro Blood Circulation Loop System

Background: In vitro blood circulation loop systems are utilized to assess the hemocompatibility and performance of medical devices that come into contact with blood, in accordance with the international standards ASTM F1830 and ASTM F1841. However, a method for evaluating the specific type of anticoagulant and the blood characteristics of each animal species is necessary to ensure consistent and reliable results. Methods: Blood was collected from healthy rabbits, pigs, rhesus monkeys, and cynomolgus monkeys to evaluate whole blood preserved in anticoagulants (ACD-A, CPDA-1, and heparin). For each sample, red blood cells were monitored over time, and their morphological characteristics were documented. Results: The morphological grade of erythrocytes gradually decreased over time. Significant differences were observed based on the type of anticoagulant used in the experiment, and variations were noted among different animal species. Conclusions: The hemocompatibility of in vitro blood circulation loop systems may vary depending on the animal species. Observing erythrocyte morphology can serve as a control measure to ensure reproducible results.