Comparative Analysis of Labile and Stable Coagulation Factors in Fresh Frozen Plasma and Plasma Frozen 24 Hours After Phlebotomy: A Prospective Study

Background Plasma contains coagulation factors, for which it is widely used for patients with coagulation deficiencies. The coagulation factors Factor V and Factor VIII are considered labile factors. The preparation methods and storage periods affect plasma quality. Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is plasma prepared and frozen within six to eight hours after collection, and frozen plasma (FP24) is prepared and frozen from donor blood units after keeping them at 2-6°C for 16-24 hours after blood collection. The aim of this study is to measure both labile and stable coagulation factor levels and compare them between FFP and frozen plasma (FP24). Materials and methods A total of 100 plasma units were included. The FFPs were prepared as per our institutional standard operating procedure (SOP), and frozen plasma (F24) was prepared according to the Association for the Advancement of Blood and Biotherapies (AABB) guidelines. The coagulation parameters, such as prothrombin time (PT), international normalized ratio (INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and coagulation factors (V, VII, VIII, and fibrinogen), were estimated using a semi-automated coagulometer (Erba ECL-412) in our institution. Result The coagulation parameters, such as PT, INR, and aPTT, were increased, and the coagulation factors were decreased in FP24 plasma as compared to FFP on the day of preparation and after three and six months of storage. Statistically, some coagulation factors showed significant results, whereas others were insignificant. Conclusion The frozen plasma (FP24) can be used therapeutically in stable coagulation factor deficiencies, mostly fibrinogen deficiency, with proper guidelines.