Medical infusion bags can release microplastics, study shows

Microplastics have become a widespread issue, with these tiny plastic particles being found in various environments. A recent study published in the journal Environment & Health has revealed a new concerning source of microplastics – medical infusion bags.

The research conducted by Liwu Zhang, Ventsislav Kolev Valev, and their team found that microplastic particles, ranging from 1 to 62 micrometers in size, are present in the filtered solutions used for medical intravenous (IV) infusions. These particles could potentially be delivered directly into a person’s bloodstream through the IV fluids. The study estimates that a single 8.4-ounce (250-milliliter) bag of infusion fluid could introduce thousands of plastic particles into the bloodstream.

IV infusions are common in clinical settings, providing patients with essential fluids, electrolytes, nutrients, or medications. These infusions are typically packaged in individual plastic pouches containing a saline solution. The researchers discovered that the microplastic particles found in the IV fluids were made from polypropylene, the same material used in the bags themselves. This suggests that the bags shed microplastics into the solutions, posing a potential health risk to patients.

To analyze the extent of microplastic contamination in IV fluid bags, the researchers purchased two different brands of saline solution bags and filtered the contents to capture the microscopic particles. They found that each bag of infusion fluid could contain up to 7,500 microplastic particles, with the number increasing for treatments requiring multiple bags.

The study recommends avoiding exposure of IV infusion bags to ultraviolet light and heat to reduce microplastic shedding. Additionally, the researchers suggest using micrometer-level filtration systems to remove these particles during infusion to mitigate potential health risks.

While there have been no clinical studies assessing the health effects of microplastics exposure, the findings of this study highlight the need for further research and policy measures to address the potential threats posed by microplastics in healthcare settings.

This study, titled “MPs Entering Human Circulation through Infusions: A Significant Pathway and Health Concern,” provides valuable insights into the presence of microplastics in medical infusion bags. It underscores the importance of understanding and addressing this issue to safeguard human health.

For more information on this study, readers can refer to the original publication in Environment & Health (DOI: 10.1021/envhealth.4c00210). The research was conducted by the American Chemical Society and aims to raise awareness of the potential risks associated with microplastic contamination in healthcare settings.