SODIUM CITRATE Trisodium citrate is used as an anticoagulant for coagulation investigations. It works as an anticoagulant as it forms complexes with metal ions such as calcium inhibiting the coagulation cascade. Anticoagulation with trisodium citrate is reversible. LYBCON Vacutainer Citrate tubes contain buffered citrate in accordance with recommendations: 0.105 M or 0.109 M of buffered trisodium citrate solution, equivalent to 3.2% trisodium citrate The blood to additive ratio is 9:1. The citrate solution in the acts as LYBCON Vacutainer a buffer. Therefore, no additional buffer substances are added as these can adversely affect laboratory analysis. LYBCON Vacutainer Citrate tubes are also suitable for carrying out special test procedures such as the platelet function test PFA-100. Special tubes and the associated additional costs are therefore unnecessary. FILL LINE MARKING The significance of the correct ratio of blood to additive for coagulation samples is well documented. The correct fill amount is critical for correct coagulation analysis. All LYBCON Vacutainer coagulation tubes have a mark indicating the minimum fill level. CENTRIFUGING CONDITIONS For coagulation analysis different plasma specifications can be obtained from the citrated blood. Platelet rich plasma:150-200g for 5 minutes at 18-25 C Platelet poor plasma:2000-2500g for 10-15 minutes at 18-25 C Platelet free plasma: >3000g for 15-30 minutes at 18-25 C MIXING RECOMMENDATION Citrate tubes should be gently inverted 180 and back 3-4 times. SPECIFICATION Specimen: Plasma or Whole Additive: Sodium citrate 3.2% or 3.8% (9NC) Cap color: Blue Tube Size: 13x75mm Draw Volume: 1.8mL, 2.7mL Max. draw volume Tolerance: ±10%