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 We must pool platelets from six whole blood donors to provide enough for one transfusion patient.
However, there is a more efficient technique called apheresis that allows us to collect enough platelets from a single donor and then give the donor back all of his or her plasma and red cells. Even then, this is such a small percentage of the donor's platelets that there is no risk of bleeding problems.
When blood is spun in a centrifuge, it separates into its components with the plasma on top, the white cells and platelets in a thin middle layer, and the red cells on the bottom.
 With the special apheresis centrifuge, the blood can be fed into the system continually. As it spins, the components separate and the platelets are drawn off. The plasma, white cells, and red cells are then recombined and returned to the donor.
The donor can sit and read, listen to music or watch television while the lifesaving platelets are collected. The body will replace the donated platelets within 72 hours. |
