Change in Belgian legislation for maximum plasma volume
As of today, an important change in Belgian legislation regarding plasma donation is in effect. The maximum plasma volume to be collected per donation has been adjusted to 765 ml.
The collection volume for plasma is calculated based on the donor's total blood volume (estimated by height, weight and gender) and the regulations that stipulate that the amount of plasma collected should not exceed 765ml and 16% of this total blood volume.
Who is eligible for the increased plasma donation?
Not every donor is eligible for the higher collection volume. Only donors with an adequate blood volume can safely donate larger amounts of plasma. This also takes into account the amount of plasma the donor has already donated in the past month.
The exact collection volume is determined during the pre-donation check-up moment. Here, the donor's height, weight and gender are taken into account, as well as how much plasma the donor has already donated in the past month. The collector or health care professional informs the donor of the maximum volume that can be collected. Here a lower collection volume can always be opted for, for medical reasons and/or at the donor's request.
Despite the increased volume, the increased collection does not pose additional risks for donors who have sufficient blood volume. In fact, the percentage of blood volume drawn remains similar to that of other donors.
The plasma that eventually ends up in the collection bag is mixed with a small amount of anticoagulant product. This is necessary to prevent clotting of the blood taken in the plasma device. Therefore, due to the presence of this anticoagulant product, the total volume is higher than the actual volume of plasma you donate.