Autologous Thrombin Production in a Variety of Species

Introduction: Thrombin is an enzyme that plays a large role in hemostasis and wound healing. It can be used as an adjunct in surgical procedures and using an autologous thrombin source eliminates the potential for immune response. Autologous thrombin can be translated into the veterinary field, making it a necessity to understand how it works in many species. In this study, whole blood (WB) and platelet poor plasma (PPP) from multiple species were tested to determine their ability to produce thrombin serum.

Materials and Methods: Porcine, equine, bovine, ovine, and canine blood was obtained from a commercial vendor and human blood was drawn to use as a control. All blood (n = 3 donors/species) was processed 24–48 hours after draw time. Thrombin serum was generated from WB or PPP using the Thrombinator System (Arthrex, Inc.). Once removed from the device, serum was tested for thrombin activity. Significant differences were determined with a two-way ANOVA.

Results: When producing thrombin serum, the approximate procedure time was 20 minutes. With the exception of sheep and canine samples, serum thrombin activity was significantly higher when generated with WB rather than PPP (p < 0.001). All sera generated displayed thrombin activity.

Discussion/Conclusion: In conclusion, autologous thrombin is a viable option for use in a veterinary setting. Autologous thrombin serum production was shown in multiple species using both WB and PPP.

Acknowledgment: This study was funded by Arthrex, Inc.