Cell-free hemoglobin in a variety of forms can serve as an alternative oxygen carrier in a variety of animal models and some clinical situations. Randomized clinical trials of the use of hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers in resuscitation have consistently showed excess mortality. In this talk, I will review the physiologic basis for the narrow therapeutic window for these materials that creates controversy around their use.

John R. Hess, MD, MPH, FACP, FAAAS
Professor of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology
Adjunct Professor of Medicine and Hematology
University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle
Medical Director, Transfusion Service, Harborview Medical Center
Colonel, Medical Corps, US Army (Retired)