Use of Haemonetics cell saver for Autotransfusion in Cardiovascular Surgery

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Abstract
The Hemonetics Cell Saver was evaluated as a tool for the refining of blood shed during cardiovascular surgery. After blood filtration the red cells are concentrated, washed, and reinfused as red cells suspended in normal saline (CS blood) with hematocrit .apprx. 60%. Platelets and plasma with desired and undesired components are removed. In 50 patients undergoing elective but complicated cardiovascular surgery, an average of 4.4 U CS blood were produced. In 3 Jehovah''s Witnesses the method was used in combination with immediate preoperative prebleeding and dextran infusion. No blood products were given. The hematocrit was maintained at a safe level subsequent to retransfusion. Platelet counts were never critically low and extremely low total protein did not lead to peripheral or pulmonary edemas or coagulation problems. In an in vitro study, it was shown that extreme dilution of coagulation factors is well tolerated before the clotting time (ACT) is affected. The Cell Saver proved to be an effective, reliable and safe device for autotransfusion of salvaged blood during cardiovascular surgery.

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