Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasmapheresis in Cardiovascular Surgery: A Narrative Review

Perioperative coagulopathy and bleeding are common complications in cardiovascular surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass and result in an increased rate of allogeneic blood transfusion. Both bleeding and transfusion can increase postoperative mortality and morbidity. Patient blood management can significantly reduce allogeneic blood transfusions, improve clinical outcomes, and conserve blood resources; however, measures to protect platelets from destruction by cardiopulmonary bypass still are lacking. As an unusual method of autologous blood transfusion, autologous platelet-rich plasmapheresis can effectively protect platelets from damage and has been used successfully in cardiovascular surgery. This narrative review aims to address some major clinical applications and debates of using autologous platelet-rich plasmapheresis in cardiovascular surgery. In addition, this review summarizes the application of autologous platelet gel, a product developed from autologous platelet-rich plasma, in cardiac surgery.