The Air Force Medical Command (AFMEDCOM) issued a Request for Information (RFI) to identify companies capable of providing a portable cell salvage device that can efficiently recover and condition blood for on-demand transfusions in military settings. The initiative aims to address the critical shortage of transportable blood supplies necessary for treating combat-related hemorrhagic shock and blood loss. The RFI seeks information about respondents' capabilities to deliver, field, and sustain the proposed solution while outlining both essential requirements and preferences for the product.
Responses are requested from all business sizes and must include details such as company background, existing products, and capabilities related to the RFI requirements. The potential use cases for the required device emphasize the need for effective blood management in austere or expeditionary environments, enhancing patient outcomes by bridging surgical capabilities with timely interventions. The document includes specific submission guidelines, a timeline for responses, and a point of contact for further inquiries. This RFI exemplifies government efforts to procure advanced medical solutions for military medical services.
The document outlines the essential characteristics and preferences for a cell salvage device as part of a federal RFP. Key requirements include FDA approval status, capabilities to enhance organ perfusion, treat acidosis, and improve oxygen delivery and coagulopathy. The device must have a power supply for at least eight hours of uninterrupted use and should not induce hypothermia, with limitations on weight and dimensions. It is also crucial for the device to function independently for blood optimization, be man-portable, and meet military ruggedization standards (MIL-STD-810G). Supporting features include flow rate control for compatibility with various vascular access points and the capability to treat hemorrhage without external blood products. Overall, this document aims to establish clear criteria for sourcing an effective cell salvage unit to support patients experiencing hemorrhagic conditions, addressing both functionality and safety requirements in the medical field.