Hematomas in multicomponent apheresis: searching for related factors

The objective of this study was to identify donation variables that could be related to the development of hematoma during multicomponent apheresis collections (MACs).

This is an observational retrospective study where 1375 donors donated 5177 MACs during a 2-year period with two different machines (Amicus Crescendo [AC], Baxter Healthcare Corp.; and Trima Accel [TA], Gambro BCT). Variable data were recorded prospectively. In the multiple logistic regression analysis, generalized estimating equations were used with an exchangeable correlation matrix to take into account the nonindependence of several measurements from the same donor.

During the study period, 170 procedures failed due to hematoma (3.3%). Several variables were related to hematoma development in the adjusted model: operator experience (less than 500 procedures supervised vs. more; odds ratio [OR], 1.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19-2.31), previous apheresis donations (first time vs. more than 16 donations; OR, 2.87; 95% CI, 1.52-5.45), vein canalized (basilic vs. intermediate antebrachial or cephalic; OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.04-1.94), diastolic blood pressure (units divided by 10 mmHg; OR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.66-0.94), and type of machine used (TA high return limit configuration [RLC] setting configuration vs. AC; OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.27-2.96; TA low RLC setting configuration vs. AC; OR, 1.24; 95% CI, 0.83-1.84).

Our study suggests that hematoma in MAC is not a random event. Appropriate machine configuration in the TA could reduce the hematoma rate to a level comparable with that of the AC. Operator training and donor blood pressure are also interesting variables for study because these could be modified to reduce the hematoma rate.