Walking donor transfusion in a far forward environment.

ABSTRACT

This case report details the walking donor transfusion (WDT) option for management of exsanguinating hemorrhage performed in an austere environment. It has civilian application in situations in which local blood supply is overwhelmed by demand due to a natural or manmade (ie, terrorist) disaster. WDT is discussed in light of alternative transfusion techniques, and the history of WDT is briefly discussed. Walking donor transfusion is appropriate for use in extreme cases of patient exsanguination.