Cardiopulmonary bypass(CPB) is associated with thrombocytopenia and platelet dysfunction. The primary cause of acquired platelet defect is thought to be activation and release of alpha granules during CPB. Before CPB, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was prepared by obtaining the required amount of patient’s whole blood by autologous plateletpheresis. PRP could be reinfused after operation in order to protect the function and quantities of the platelets. On the other hand, PRP could be made into autologous platelet gel (APG). APG contains supraphysiologic amounts of growth factors, and has adequate tensile strength and adhesive ability. Therefore, it can be used for hemostasis in operation, sealing wound and enhancing incision or dehiscent sternal wounds healing.
