The sterility of platelet and granulocyte concentrates collected by discontinuous flow centrifugation

Platelet concentrates prepared by a discontinuous flow centrifugal technique (Haemonetics) were examined for evidence of bacterial contamination and subsequent growth from 3 to 11 days after collection. Of the 126 platelet concentrates examined, 4 revealed bacterial growth. However, the growth patterns indicated contamination during the microbiologic manipulations rather than contamination of the units during preparation. These studies indicate that platelet concentrates prepared using the Haemonetics Blood Processor can be safely transfused for up to three days after collection if stored at 4 to 6 C.