The purpose of this test method is to determine the time citrated plasma exposed to medical materials takes to form a clot when exposed to a suspension of phospholipid particles and calcium chloride. In this test method, the test article is the activator. The PTT assay is a general screening test for medical material’s ability to activate the intrinsic coagulation pathway. Material samples that show a shortened PTT are activators of the intrinsic coagulation pathway.

Test samples that show a shortened PTT are activators of the intrinsic coagulation pathway. The results are reported as a percent of the negative control. The test article, reference materials, and controls are exposed to human plasma. The plasma is tested on a coagulation device. Each sample tube is assayed in duplicate.

1.1 This test method covers the screening of cardiovascular device materials for their ability to induce blood coagulation. This assay should be part of the hemocompatibility evaluation for devices and materials contacting human blood.

1.2 All safety policies and practices shall be observed during the performance of this test method.

1.3 All plasma and any materials that had contact with plasma will be bagged in a biohazard bag, properly labeled with the contents, and disposed by appropriate means. The plasma should be handled at the Biosafety Level 2 as recommended in the Centers for Disease Control/National Institutes of Health Manual Biosafety in Microbiological Laboratories.

1.4 The normal pooled human plasma must have tested negative for Hepatitis B (HBV) or Human Immunodeficiency (HIV) viruses. The plasmas should be treated like any patient plasma using universal precautions. The plasma should be handled at the Biosafety Level 2 as recommended in the Centers for Disease Control/National Institutes of Health Manual Biosafety in Microbiological Laboratories.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.