?:definition
|
-
Apheresis units primarily designed to automate the separation and collection of plasma from a healthy blood donor (i.e., perform plasmapheresis). Typically, plasma is collected and the rest of the blood is automatically reinfused; with the use of automated methods, large quantities of plasma can be obtained from a single donor. Blood donor plasmapheresis units usually consist of a disposable pheresis set (i.e., a tubing set that connects the patient to the apheresis unit), pumps (e.g., rotary peristaltic pumps), a centrifugation chamber, bowls, filters, clamps, controls (e.g., centrifuge and pump speed, volume of solution added), alarms, and bubble detectors. Blood donor plasmapheresis units may be used also for plasma exchange in some therapeutic procedures.
|