Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Platelet Pheresis
Technical Term: Platelets, pheresis, pathogen-reduced, each unit (HCPCS Code: Q9988)

Summary

Platelet pheresis, pathogen-reduced, is a medical procedure to collect platelets from a donor's blood. These collected platelets are treated to reduce pathogens, making them safer for transfusion into patients who need to boost their platelet count due to medical conditions.

Purpose

This procedure is used to increase platelet counts in patients with low platelet levels, improving blood clotting. It is often crucial for patients undergoing chemotherapy, suffering from certain blood disorders, or those with severe trauma-induced bleeding.

Indications

• Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
• Blood disorders such as leukemia or aplastic anemia
• Post-chemotherapy platelet support
• Severe trauma leading to significant blood loss
• Pre-surgical preparation for patients with bleeding risks

Preparation

• Fasting may not be required, but patients should follow specific dietary guidelines if provided.
• Inform the medical team of any medications or blood thinners.
• Complete any necessary blood tests to ensure compatibility and safe transfusion.

Procedure Description

1. A needle is inserted into a vein in each arm; blood is drawn from one arm.
2. Blood passes through a machine separating platelets from other components.
3. Pathogens in platelets are reduced using specialized technologies like UV light or chemical treatments.
4. The remaining blood components are returned to the donor through the needle in the other arm.
5. The collected, pathogen-reduced platelets are then stored for transfusion use.

Tools: Apheresis machine, UV light/chemical pathogen reduction system
Anesthesia: Typically none; local anesthesia may be used for needle insertion if needed.

Duration

The procedure typically takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

Setting

Performed in hospitals, outpatient clinics, or specialized blood donation centers.

Personnel

• Physician or specialized technician
• Nurses
• Pathogen reduction technology experts (if needed)

Risks and Complications

• Mild risks include bruising, dizziness, and temporary low calcium levels.
• Rare complications can include infections, allergic reactions, or severe bleeding.
• Pathogen reduction minimizes infection risk but does not eliminate it entirely.

Benefits

• Reduces the risk of transfusion-transmissible infections.
• Immediate improvement in patient’s platelet count.
• Enhanced safety of transfused platelets supports better patient outcomes.

Recovery

• Monitor the transfusion site for bleeding or infection signs.
• Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours post-procedure.
• Stay hydrated and follow any specific post-operative instructions provided by the healthcare team.

Alternatives

• Traditional platelet transfusion (without pathogen reduction).
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment.
• Medications to boost the body's platelet production.
• Each alternative has its pros and cons regarding efficacy, safety, and availability.

Patient Experience

• Minor discomfort from needle insertion and mild fatigue.
• Patients typically feel no pain during the platelet collection process.
• Post-procedure monitoring ensures well-being, and any discomfort is managed by the healthcare team.