Rika (plasma transfusion apparatus)

History

2022: Plasma transfusion machine released in less than 35 minutes

On March 10, 2022, Terumo launched the Rika automated plasma collection system on the market. The system includes safety features that minimize operator errors when collecting plasma in 35 minutes or less.

According to the press release, Terumo developed Rika in response to the medical industry's need for technological progress and process improvements to improve reliability while maintaining donor safety and sufficient plasma reserves. The company focused the technology on the experience of donors and employees of plasma sampling centers: the sampling time of the system is 35 minutes or less, and the volume is 200 ml or less due to the fact that this may be more comfortable for the donors themselves.

Plasma transfusion apparatus in less than 35 minutes

Human blood plasma is a liquid part of blood in which form elements are weighed. It is a homogeneous yellowish liquid, which 90% consists of water that contains nutrients: proteins, fats, carbohydrates, hormones, vitamins, salts, are necessary to build body tissues and maintain their vital activities, as well as organic substances that regulate metabolism.

Rika will revolutionize the work of plasma collection centers! We have introduced modifications to work with donors and plasma collection centers, creating a completely different ecosystem. This is a very important moment for us to contribute to the development of society through health care and meet our goal of reaching more patients. The automatic plasmapheresis method has proven to be progressive, its use gives a number of advantages for the donor and recipient - said Antoinette Gawin, president and CEO of Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies.

Rika is equipped with an advanced control system that improves donor safety by monitoring the process and providing warnings and visual signals. The system directs the operator while the platform automatically adjusts during each procedure. Terumo plans to release Rika to a limited market at CSL Plasma plasma collection centers in Denver by the end of April 2022, and the company plans to introduce it to other CSL Plasma centers by early 2023.^[1]

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