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1.1 This practice provides a protocol for the assessment of hemolytic properties of materials used in the fabrication of medical devices that will contact blood.

1.2 This practice is intended to evaluate the acute in vitro hemolytic properties of materials intended for use in contact with blood.

1.3 This practice consists of a protocol for a hemolysis test under static conditions with either an extract of the material or direct contact of the material with blood. It is recommended that both tests (extract and direct contact) be performed unless the material application or contact time justifies the exclusion of one of the tests.

1.4 This practice is one of several developed for the assessment of the biocompatibility of materials. Practice F748 may provide guidance for the selection of appropriate methods for testing materials for a specific application. Test Method E2524 provides a protocol using reduced test volumes to assess the hemolytic properties of blood-contacting nanoparticulate materials; this may include nanoparticles that become unbound from material surfaces.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

5.1 The presence of hemolytic material in contact with the blood may cause loss of, or damage to, red blood cells and may produce increased levels of free plasma hemoglobin capable of inducing toxic effects or other effects which may stress the kidneys or other organs.

5.2 This practice may not be predictive of events occurring during all types of implant applications. The user is cautioned to consider the appropriateness of the method in view of the materials being tested, their potential applications, and the recommendations contained in Practice F748.