The separation gel coagulant blood collection tube (SST tube for short) is a commonly used blood collection tool in clinical and laboratory diagnosis. They are widely used in various blood analyses, especially in serum biochemical and immunological testing. The SST tube contains serum separation gel and coagulant, which can quickly promote blood coagulation and separate serum from blood cells. However, the applicability of SST tubes for platelet separation is often discussed.

 

blood coagulation

 

Structure and principle of separating gel coagulant blood collection tube (SST tube)

 

 

The separation gel in the SST tube is an inert colloid that forms a barrier in the tube through centrifugal force, separating serum from blood cells. This separation gel usually has a moderate specific gravity and can be stably located between serum and blood cells during centrifugation. The coagulant in the SST tube can quickly activate coagulation factors in the blood, causing rapid coagulation and obtaining cell-free serum in a short period of time for subsequent analysis.

 

SST tubes are mainly used for the separation and preservation of serum. Due to its convenience, it is widely used in fields such as serum biochemistry and immunology. By using SST tubes, clear serum samples can be obtained, which are suitable for various analytical instruments and methods.

 

Characteristics and separation requirements of platelets

 

1. The physiological function of platelets: Platelets are a cellular component in the blood, primarily involved in blood clotting and hemostasis processes. When blood vessels are damaged, platelets quickly gather at the damaged area, forming platelet clots to prevent bleeding. In addition, platelets also participate in immune responses.

 

2. The need for platelet separation: In some clinical and research applications, platelet separation is required for further analysis and research. For example, in platelet function testing, platelet storage, and transfusion, high-purity platelet samples are required. Therefore, how to separate platelets has become an important issue.

 

Can SST tubes separate platelets

 

1. The effect of separation gel on platelets

 

Separation gel can separate serum and blood cells during centrifugation, but its effectiveness in separating platelets is limited. The density of platelets is between serum and blood cells. During centrifugation, some platelets may remain in the serum above the separation gel instead of settling entirely in the cell layer below the separation gel.

 

2. The effect of coagulants on platelets

 

The coagulant in the SST tube can quickly promote blood coagulation, thereby causing platelet aggregation and participating in the formation of blood clots. In this case, platelets are difficult to separate individually and most of them will be embedded in blood clots, making it difficult to obtain platelet samples using SST tubes.

 

Practical Application of SST Tube

 

In clinical testing, SST tubes are mainly used for serum biochemical and immunological analysis, rather than specifically for platelet separation. Therefore, in routine blood testing, SST tubes can meet most needs. But in specific tests that require platelet samples, specialized separation tubes and methods should be considered.

 

There are differences in cost and ease of use among different types of blood collection tubes. SST tubes have relatively low costs due to their wide application and convenient operation. Specialized platelet separation tubes have higher costs, but can provide higher quality platelet samples. Research and clinical personnel should weigh cost and convenience based on actual needs, and choose an appropriate blood collection plan.

 

Product packaging

 

The separation gel coagulant blood collection tube (SST tube) is mainly used for the separation and preservation of serum, and is suitable for fields such as serum biochemistry and immunology. Due to its separation gel and coagulant properties, SST tubes are difficult to separate high-purity platelet samples. In applications that require high-quality platelet samples, it is recommended to use specialized platelet separation tubes.

 

As an advantageous manufacturer of serum separation gel and coagulant, Desheng can provide one-stop supply of raw materials to help customers quickly purchase their desired products. The company has strict quality control and the product performance meets the standards before leaving the factory, so everyone can use it with confidence. If you are interested, please feel free to click on the website to inquire about details and purchase at any time!