Changes of platelet function and blood coagulation during short-term storage of CPDA-1-stabilised ovine blood

The objective of this study was to detect the influence of short-term storage on the haemostatic function in whole citrated ovine blood at different storage temperatures. Ovine blood was collected in a commercial transfer bag system containing CPDA-1 and stored on a wobbler at room (20-25 °C; n=5) or refrigerator temperature (4 °C; n=5). The following analyses were performed initially and after 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h of storage: platelet count and (spontaneous) aggregates, agonist-induced platelet aggregation with two methods (impedance aggregometry, turbidimetric method), prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, thrombin time, fibrinogen concentration and resonance thrombography. Platelet count remained stable at room temperature, whereas a significant decrease was detected after 48 h storage at 4 °C. The latter was associated with the formation of a high percentage of platelet aggregates (50-60%) after 5h storage. Decrease in platelet aggregation was significantly more pronounced when blood was stored at 4°C. The plasmatic coagulation tests were stable within the observation period. Results indicate that platelet count and aggregability of CPDA-1-stabilised ovine blood is better preserved at room temperature and provides adequate haemostatic function for ex vivo experiments for one working day. Functional loss and high percentage of platelets within aggregates which were observed in ovine blood stored at refrigerator temperature have to be considered in blood transfusion in sheep.