Apheresis is a special kind of automated donation that allows whole blood to be withdrawn from the donor and separated into its component parts via a cell separator. All components, except for the platelets, are returned to the donor. This procedure takes approximately 1 and 1/2 to 2 hours. Your body replaces platelets within 48-72 hours and you can give platelets every 72 hours. During apheresis, whole blood is separated through a cell separator and red blood cells are collected. The remainder of the blood components are returned to the donor along with saline to replace the lost volume. Most donors are happy to know that a smaller needle is used and do not mind that the procedure takes approximately 15-20 minutes longer than a whole blood donation. Platelets are essential for blood clotting and often used by patients with bleeding disorders such as leukemia and aplastic anemia. Apheresis products or components are also used for cancer patients, patients with blood disorders, trauma and burn victims, organ transplant and heart surgeries. Platelets only last for 5 days!