Comparison of platelet-rich plasma collection using the Haemonetics PCS and Baxter Autopheresis C.

We have compared 118 platelet-rich plasma donations collected using the Autopheresis-C Platelet cell (Auto C) with 166 donations using the Haemonetics PCS. The median platelet yield from the Auto C was superior (2.51 vs. 1.54 x 10(11] although collection times differed (60 vs./40 min). There was greater variability in the platelet yield from the Auto C (0.45-5.6 vs./0.26-2.8 x 10(11], but leucocyte contamination was not significantly different. After secondary processing, there was significantly less residual platelet-poor plasma (272 vs. 369 ml). Platelet function assessed during 5 days of storage was satisfactory for both, although platelet aggregation responses to collagen and adenosine diphosphate were superior in the Auto C platelets.