Abstract
The efficacy of the autotransfusion system is a reducing the need of intraoperative and postoperative transfusion in cardiovascular surgery. Between January 1990 and December 1991, we experienced 23 cases of autotransfusion using Haemonetic Cell Saver in cardiovascular surgery [Experimental group]. Another 13 cases which were taken similiar operations without Cell Saver during same period [Control group]. The amounts of blood transfused are 4.23 1.84 units in Control group, 2.82 1.84 units in Experimental group. Postoperatively, both groups showed decreased platelet counts, mild prolongation of prothrombin and partial thromboplastin time compred to preoperative value [P<0.001], but there were no significant differences between two group [P=NS]. Plasma hemoglobin was markedly increased in Experimental group compared with Control group [p<0.05]. In Experimental group, amount of average processed blood by Cell Saver was 700ml of which composition was hemoglobin 17mg/dl, hematocrit 50.0%, RBC 5,590,000/ml, WBC 7500/ml, and platelet 40,000/ml. The culture of the processed blood revealed no growth of the organisms. Conclusively, Cell Saver autotransfusion system is a simple, safe, and cost effective method especially in the cases associated with massive bleeding. However, it requires familiarity with system, gentle manipulation of suction tip, and careful selection of candidates to obtain maximal benefits .