AUTOLOGOUS BLOOD PREDEPOSIT FOR ELECTIVE SURGERY - A PROGRAM FOR BETTER USE AND CONSERVATION OF BLOOD

Abstract

The results of a pilot study on predeposit autotransfuion for elective surgery is reported. In 2 yr 319 U, each consisting of 350 ml of blood, were donated by 206 patients. Each patient gave 1, 2 or 3 U according to hematocrit levels within 10 days of undergoing surgery on the gastrointestinal tract, lung, liver kidney, brain, thyroid, arteries or breast. A hemoglobin drop of about 0.8 gm/dl occurred after each blood donation. A total of 259 autologous and 128 homologous U were transfused to 166 patients during surgery or within postoperative day 4; 40 patients required no blood transfusion. About 70% of patients did not need homologous blood products in addition to autologous units. The most active team of surgeons and anesthesiologists covered about 40% of the patients'' blood needs during the study period with autologous units. No patient experienced untoward reactions before, during or after surgery. Surgeons'' and anesthesiologists'' responses to the program improved during the study as soon as the advantages of the procedure became clearer. However, gentle pressure from the Transfusion Center [Milan Italy] was essential for the program''s expansion. The patients'' acceptance was excellent. Predeposit autotransfusion is a safe and feasible procedure for transfusion treatment in elective surgery.