Evaluation of accuracy of platelet rich plasma preparation devices for cardiac surgery: A prospective, randomized, single blinded study

BACKGROUND: Applying platelet rich plasma (PRP) to the sternum immediately prior to approximation has been shown to enhance wound healing, lower the incidence of sternal wound infections, reduce costs associated with treating these infections and decrease post-operative pain scores. Multiple investigations have reported device specific outcomes regarding PRP preparation yields from healthy volunteer blood donors, all with initial platelet counts in the normal range. What is missing from the literature is how accurately PRP preparations reflect device-specific yield target values, particularly under the clinical conditions encountered routinely in the cardiac surgery arena. METHODS: group (30 cases) comprised the two study groups (2 groups, 60 total cases, 120 samples total). Pre and post processing blood samples from each group were analyzed for platelet counts. Platelet count increases were assessed for accuracy when compared to a specific target. RESULTS: Individual yields from each tested device demonstrated some degree of limited variability. However, both groups mean values achieved and slightly exceeded the target value of a six-fold increase; Magellan group (M = 6.58, SD = 1.33), Angel group (M = 6.31, SD = 0.93). CONCLUSION: Both devices, on average, appear capable of accurately preparing PRP to meet the specific target value of a six-fold increase over baseline under conditions routinely encountered in cardiac surgery.