Pre-Hospital Platelets

The Welsh Blood Service is working with the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service, undertaking a research project to improve emergency trauma care. The project is titled ‘Investigations into Cold Stored Platelets for Pre-Hospital Emergency resuscitation’. The project is also supported by experts from the Royal Navy and CEDAR.

Each year in Wales, around 1,300 trauma patients face life-and-death situations, with many desperately needing emergency blood transfusions.

Research has shown that including platelets in early transfusions can significantly improve outcomes for severely injured patients. Platelets are a blood component that help with clotting and wound healing. However, platelets are currently stored at room temperature and have a very short shelf life, making them impractical for pre-hospital use.

This project explores the use of platelets stored at cold temperatures. Unlike the current method, cold-stored platelets last longer and are more effective at helping blood clot. This makes them a valuable new tool for emergency medical teams. The project investigates the feasibility and effectiveness of storing cold-stored platelets alongside red blood cells in specialised transport boxes. Early results are promising, showing that cold-stored platelets could be highly beneficial.

The next phase will involve further testing and data analysis, paving the way for a potential clinical trial. The ultimate goal is to deliver advanced care to trauma patients at the scene, significantly improving their chances of survival and recovery.