Autologous platelet-rich plasma does not reduce transfusion of homologous blood products in patients undergoing repeat valvular surgery.

Abstract

Patients undergoing cardiac surgery employing cardiopulmonary bypass frequently require transfusion of homologous blood products and, therefore, are exposed to the risk of transfusions. Autologous platelet-rich plasma administration may reduce homologous transfusion and attendant risks. In a blinded, randomized fashion, patients undergoing repeat sternotomy and valvular surgery received either a sham product (n = 28) or autologous platelet-rich plasma (n = 28) at the conclusion of cardiopulmonary bypass. Perioperative blood loss, coagulation profiles, and transfusion requirements were compared between the two groups. In the first 24 h postoperatively, both the platelet-rich plasma and sham groups received a median of 10.5 units of homologous blood products. Total median perioperative homologous transfusion requirements were 13 and 11.5 units for the platelet-rich plasma and sham groups, respectively. There was no significant difference in intraoperative or postoperative bleeding between the groups. Autologous platelet-rich plasma did not reduce perioperative bleeding or transfusion requirements in repeat valvular surgery.