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Gelatin for Plasma Volume Replacer (PVR)

Gelatin-based PVR effectively manages blood loss in emergencies and surgeries, offering a temporary alternative to blood transfusions. Rousselot’s lime bone gelatins meet the highest standards in this field.
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Why is gelatin used in PVR?

Gelatin, a natural protein derived from collagen, is an ideal choice for plasma volume replacers (PVRs) due to its unique properties:

 

Non-toxic and biocompatible: Gelatin is safe for intravenous administration and well-tolerated by the human body.Volume-expanding: Gelatin-based PVRs effectively mimic the volume-expanding properties of blood plasma, replacing up to 40% of animal and 10-20% of human blood.Superior to starch substitutes: Gelatin PVRs offer several advantages over starch-based substitutes, including no side effects, short retention times, and no accumulation.

 

The first documented intravenous use of gelatin as a blood plasma substitute for treating clinical shock occurred in 1915.1 Its potential was largely forgotten until World War II, when the demand for plasma substitutes reignited interest in gelatin’s possibilities.

3 ways to produce gelatin-based PVR from a gelatin solution

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Hydrolyzation
To achieve the appropriate molecular weight for maintaining blood pressure compatibility.
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Chemical modification
of the molecule from a linear to a globular conformation, enhancing compatibility with the body.
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Expandable
Gelatin can expand by up to 200%, providing a physical barrier to bleeding.

References

  1. Hogan, JJ. The intravenous use of colloidal (gelatin) solutions in shock. Jama. 1915;lxiv(9):721–726. Doi:10.1001/jama.1915.02570350015004.
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Related

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The importance of gelatin in pharmaceutical and medical applications