Two red blood cell units collected in SAG-M additive solution with the ALYX component collection system

Area of Science:

• Transfusion Medicine
• Hematology

Background:

• The ALYX component system offers a new protocol for automated collection of two Red Blood Cell (RBC) units from a single donor.
• Previous methods required separate donations for equivalent collection volumes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and comfort of donors undergoing automated 2 RBC unit collection using the ALYX system.
• To assess the quality of collected RBC products and compare them to standard manual collection techniques.

Main Methods:

• Thirty procedures were performed on eligible donors meeting specific hemoglobin and ferritin criteria.
• Physiological parameters and hematological profiles were monitored pre- and post-donation.
• Donors were observed for adverse events during and for five days post-donation.
• RBC hemolysis was assessed throughout the 42-day shelf life.

Main Results:

• All collected RBC units met quality standards with good hemoglobin concentration and acceptable hemolysis levels (<0.8%).
• No serious adverse events were reported during or after the donation procedures.
• Donors reported comfort and willingness to repeat the 2 RBC unit donation process.
• No significant differences in storage parameters were observed compared to manual collection.

Conclusions:

• Automated 2 RBC unit donation using the ALYX system is a safe, comfortable, and feasible procedure for eligible donors.
• The system yields high-quality RBC products comparable to traditional methods.
• This technology represents a viable advancement in blood donation practices.