These data show that the Trima Accel represents a further improvement in apheresis platelet production with a better productivity and donor comfort, especially regarding the mean flow of ACDA to the donor.

Although TA is a suitable device for PLT collection at very high concentrations, improvements are desirable to further increase the productivity above its currently validated upper collect concentration limit.

Despite the fact that PLT aggregates occur in PLT products, published data on this topic remain scant. Considering the concern of clinicians about this phenomenon, more studies are needed which should focus on the possible clinical impact of such aggregates and precautions to avoid PLT aggregate formation in PLT products.

Although the metabolism of glucose was enhanced during hold time, the differences between both hold time groups are not meaningful from a biological viewpoint. Therefore, an 8-hour hold time is feasible. PLT storage in PAS-IIIM results in a PLT in vitro quality superior to that of PLTs stored in PAS-II.

Immediate, on-line, high-haematocrit filtration of red cells collected on Trima resulted in leucoreduced RBCs, which met the AABB and Council of Europe criteria.