An evaluation of automated platelet-rich plasma collection

Automated collection of plasma from blood donors is widely practiced. Its value can be extended by collecting platelet-rich plasma, thereby providing platelet concentrates and source plasma. The platelet concentrates so collected are equivalent to two to three single platelet concentrates. The use of acid citrate dextrose formula B (ACD-B) as the anti-coagulant during these collections is associated with good in vitro platelet viability, maintained during extended storage, and excellent Factor VIII recovery in the fractionated plasma. A small pool of committed donors and a limited number of automated cell separators used to collect PRP can contribute a significant number of platelet concentrates and source plasma.