Functional and ultrastructural status of platelets prepared by the Celltrifuge

Function and morphology of platelets collected by the Celltrifuge were investigated. In vitro platelet tests included aggregation by adenosine diplhosphate, collagen, and epinephrine, ability to support clot retraction, uptake and release of labeles serotonin, and morphology at the ultrastructural level. Each of these tests was also performed on platelets obtained from the same donor before the collection procedure was instituted. Data obtained from pre- and post-Celltrifuge platelet samples were compared and analyzed on individual donor basis as wass as on eight donors as a group. The hemostatic effectiveness of Celltrifuge-collected platelets was evaluated by their ability to raise platelet counts and to shorten the template bleeding time in four thrombocytopenic recipients. Our results indicate that platelets prepared by this continuous flow centrifugation equipment retained their functional and ultrastructural integrity, and significantly raised the platelet counts and shortened the bleeding time of all four patients.