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Published on: December 7, 2012
Sterilization method of platelet storage containers affects in vitro parameters.
P F van der Meer1, R N I Pietersz
1Sanquin Blood Bank North-West Region, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. p.vandermeer@sanquin.nl
Vox Sanguinis
|December 22, 2006
Summary
Sterilization method impacts leukoreduced platelet concentrate storage in butyryl trihexyl phthalate plasticized polyvinyl chloride containers. Steam sterilization resulted in poorer in vitro parameters compared to ethylene oxide sterilization.
Area of Science:
- Blood banking and transfusion medicine
- Materials science in medical devices
- Sterilization technologies
Background:
- Evaluating butyryl trihexyl phthalate plasticized polyvinyl chloride (BTHC-PVC) containers for leukoreduced platelet concentrate (LR-PC) storage.
- Comparing ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilized containers (Gambro, Haemonetics, Fresenius) with a steam-sterilized (Fresenius) option.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of different sterilization methods on LR-PC storage in BTHC-PVC containers.
- To determine if BTHC-PVC containers are suitable for extended LR-PC storage up to 9 days.
Main Methods:
- LR-PCs were prepared, leukoreduced by filtration, pooled, and divided into four BTHC-PVC bags.
- In vitro analysis of LR-PCs was conducted on days 1, 2, 5, 7, and 9.
Main Results:
- All BTHC-PVC containers supported LR-PC storage for 9 days with acceptable in vitro parameters.
- Steam-sterilized bags showed significantly lower pH (6.91 vs. ~7.12) and higher glucose consumption and lactate production compared to EtO-sterilized bags (P < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- BTHC-PVC containers are suitable for storing LR-PCs for up to 9 days.
- The sterilization method significantly influences the storage environment and quality of LR-PCs within these containers.
