Alyx Autologus Donation

"TAKE TWO FROM ONE"

In August 2006 WPBTS were the first transfusion service in Africa to start using the Alyx Component Collection System. This is an automated system which collects two units of leucocyte reduced red cells from a single donor at one donation.

The Alyx system employs a continuous process with intermittent draw and return cycles. Blood is withdrawn from the donor into a sterile collection kit. The required amount of red cells is collected and the remaining blood components are then returned to the donor, with saline compensation, leaving the donor in an isovolemic state. This process takes approximately 20 minutes. The system has multiple safety features to protect the donor and to ensure a safe, sterile, quality product.

Seven staff members of Western Province Blood Transfusion have been trained in using the Alyx system. It is an operator friendly machine with an icon based touch screen that takes the operator through each stage of the collection from priming to final collection.

The advantages to the transfusion service and patients are:
  •  Better utilisation of donors particularly those with high demand blood  groups.

  •  A more attractive donation option for the infrequent donor.

  •  Only requires one set of donation testing for two donations.

  •  The red cells are leucocyte reduced during collection, requiring only  one leucocyte reduction filter.

  •  Transfusing two units of red cells from the same donor helps reduce  patient exposure to infection risks and donor antigens.

  •  Donors with haemochromatosis can reduce their iron levels faster.

  •  Ideal in designated donations where there is limited time for compatible  donors to donate.
The criteria for donating two red cells at one donation differ slightly from those for regular whole blood donation.



We have processed more than 40 units of Alyx red cells for allogeneic transfusion, designated donation and autologous donation. The response from the donors has been very positive. They have found the procedure to be convenient and comfortable. Although the donation process took longer it meant they did not have to donate as frequently but at the same time they had the satisfaction of knowing they were able to help more blood recipients.