Buffy Coat Platelet Production Method to be implemented at Canadian Blood Services (2004)

Recipients of platelet transfusions should know about Canadian Blood Services' plan to introduce a new method of producing platelets from whole blood donations to be phases in over the next two years. Currently, CBS employs the Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) method of extraction; the Buffy Coat method has been in use for over 20 years in Europe and has the following benefits over the PRP method

• Improved consistency
• Reduction in production delays
• Increased production of plasma
• Reduction in cost for fractionated products

For more information about the Buffy Coat method, contact CBS at 1-888-2-DONATE, visit the CBS website at: www.bloodservices.ca or email them at: feedback@bloodservices.ca.

Cord of Life

There is a use for everything, even a discarded umbilical cord. Some Canadian hospitals are banking blood from the cord for use if the baby develops leukemia, malignant lymphoma or neuroblastoma during childhood. Umbilical cord blood is rich in stem cells, the master cells required to generate blood. These cells are used for bone marrow transplants. However, the amount of umbilical cord blood is so small, it can only be used to treat a child. Programs vary: some are free, while others charge fees up to $1,000.00 as well as a storage cost.

• In Alberta, you can donate your healthy newborn's umbilical cord to the Alberta Cord Blood Bank at no charge; phone (403)-492-CORD
• The Toronto Hospital offers a program that stores umbilical cord blood for use by the family. Fees are waived in case of medical need; phone (416)-340-3323
• In Vancouver, Lifebank Cryogenics Corp. will collect and store umbilical cord blood. Fees apply; phone (604)-738-2722 or 1-888-888-7836

Please note some of this data may be outdated. Please check carefully.