Platelet Collection with the Autopheresis-C® Apheresis System

Abstract

This report describes a new system for collection of platelet concentrate (PC) and cell-free plasma (PPP) from apheresis donors. The system uses two separation devices and requires only a single venipuncture. The Plateletcell™ device separates primary platelet concentrate (PPC) from anticoagulated whole blood and the Plasmacell-C® device separates the PPC into PC and PPP. Results of functional studies performed indicate that the separation process does not alter viability of either the PPC, the PC, or the PPP. Platelet function after 5 days of storage is maintained. An average yield of 3.4±0.7 x 10^11 platelets in 201 g of PC and 422 g of PPP were harvested in 71±13 min of donor time from donors with preprocedure hematocrits averaging 42.5±2.0% and preprocedure platelet counts averaging 265±61 x 10^3/μl.