Standardisation of the preparation of platelet concentrates

Platelet concentrates with a yield of 80,8% and an absolute number of platelets per pack of 0,86 X 10(11) were obtained, using an optimised harvesting method. This method involved standardised collection of whole blood with constant mixing of blood and anticoagulant, a first centrifugation at 750 g for 6 minutes at 22 degrees C (full brake) and a second centrifugation at 2 0000 g for 20 minutes at 22 degrees C (half brake). Resuspension of the platelet pellet in plasma was effected by leaving the pack at room temperature for 30 minutes. Platelet concentrates of 25 ml and 50 ml volume displayed satisfactory pH and count characteristics after 72-hour storage both at room temperature and at 2 - 10 degrees C.