Title : Clinical use of cryopreserved platelets: The Czech republic concept
Abstract:
The short shelf-life of fresh platelets (PLTs) limits their efficient inventory management and availability during a massive transfusion protocol. Risk of insufficient availability can be mitigated by building an inventory of cryopreserved platelets.
Method: Platelets are frozen with 6 % DMSO at −80°C, before freezing PLTs are concentrating and removing the supernatant. Shelf life of frozen PLTs are 2 years. Before use thawed PLTs are reconstituted in thawed plasma type AB and must be transfused up to 6 hours. Frozen PLTs are in Czech Republic produced since 2014 and currently are used in 7 university hospitals, usually as part of a massive transfusion protocol for polytraumatic patients but also for other indications and their stockpile is part of the state crisis blood policy.
Conclusion: Frozen PLTs are a beneficial for civilian as well as military blood banks and all facilities which do not have a permanent, or sufficient stock of fresh platelets available. Due to a relatively easy preparation, the cost of frozen platelets is not high and their storing in small portable deep freezers does not bring any significant additional expenses. Frozen platelets are safe and effective and procedure of thawing and reconstitution of frozen platelets is very simple and fast, and it allows for having quality platelets products when dealing with massive bleedings and other urgent situations.
Audience Takeaway:
- Explain the process and methods of platelets cryopreservation, their storage and reconstruction before use.
- Give an overview of the use of cryopreserved platelets in the world and their clinical use and significance.
- To acquaint with the production and use of cryopreserved platelets in the Czech Republic.
