Refrigerated platelet storage could triple blood supply, study finds

A clinical study published in JAMA suggests that refrigerated platelets can be stored for up to three weeks, potentially tripling the available supply and reducing significant medical waste. Traditionally, platelets must be stored at room temperature (20–24°C) and have a limited shelf life of only five to seven days due to the risk of bacterial growth.

The Chilled Platelet Study (CHIPS) involved approximately 1,000 adult and pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery across 27 hospitals in the United States and Australia. The trial found that platelets refrigerated at 2–6°C were as effective at treating bleeding as conventionally stored room-temperature platelets.

Dr. Philip Spinella of the University of Pittsburgh noted that this advancement could allow rural and community hospitals, which often cannot justify the cost of keeping short-lived room-temperature stock, to maintain access to this life-saving product. The findings are currently under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and international regulators.