How does pneumatic tube transportation of thrombocyteconcentrates for transfusion purposes influence the thrombocyte in vivo function?

Bloodproducts should be of good quality to reach optimal transfusion efficacy.
Furthermore bloodproducts are primarily given to acute bleeding patients or to
patients at high risk of bleeding. For this reason the process from decision to
transfusion should be performed as quick as possible.
In the academic medical center Maastricht there are two pneumatic systems. The
one is used for transport of specimens wheras the second is used for transport
of bloodproducts (packed cells, FFP, thrombocyte concentrates) for transfusion
purpose.
Nevertheless there is concern about potential disadvantages. The reason for
this is the high acceleration and deceleration which cause mechanical stress to
the cells. As a result there could be thrombocyte dysfunction which will be
seen in inadequate transfusion success, formation of unstable clots and even
boosted fibrinolysis. Actual research showed no consequences of pneumatic tube
transport on thrombocyte concentrates in vitro. But still there are no data on
the effects in vivo.

Aim of the study is to show the feasibility of pneumatic tube transport of
thrombocyte concentrates. The efficacy will be measured by thrombocyte
increment (CCI) and thrombocyte funtion analysis. This shall lead to routine
transportation of TC*s to the day care center for the purpose of transfusion to
our selected population. This shall lead to more patient contentment

The study will use a Simon*s two stage design. After inclusion of 20 patients,
we will perform an interim analysis. If 16 or less patients have a good
thrombocyte increment, the study will be stopped. If this is not the case, 38
extra patients will be included (in total 58).

There will be only an interview for the informed consent. Furthermore 52.5 ml
blood (overall) will be drawn from the central venous line.
Participants will receive coffee or tea and a compensation for traveling of 20
euros.