Thrombelastographic evaluation of the influence of 2-RBC apheresis on donor's coagulation system

Rotation thrombelastogram (ROTEM (R)/TEG (R)) assays allow rapid global assessment of hemostatic function using whole blood. Since published data about the effects of automated red cell collection on coagulation system are scarce, we aimed to investigate the effects of 2-RBC apheresis on donor's coagulation system using ROTEM (R) assays. In INTEM assay, CFT was significantly shortened 24 h after apheresis compared with baseline value (p < 0.05) and MCF was significantly prolonged immediately after apheresis and 24 h after apheresis compared with baseline value (p <0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). In EXTEM assay, CFT was significantly prolonged immediately after apheresis and 24 h after apheresis compared with baseline value (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively) and MCF was significantly prolonged 24 h after apheresis compared with baseline value (p < 0,001). Our results demonstrate thromboelastographic signs of hypercoagulability in donors undergoing 2-RBC apheresis. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.