Intraoperative autotransfusion during radical prostatectomy

Abstract

Intraoperative autotransfusion is the ideal method for restoring blood loss during surgical procedures. In the last few years the confirmation of damage due to transfusion of stored blood, plus risingcosts, led to a revaluation of this procedure. From March 1990 to December 1991, 18 patients underwent intraoperative autotransfusion during radical prostatectomy for carcinoma stage B, utilizing a Dideco Autotrans BT 795 processor. Recovered blood was washed by physiological solution, centrifuged and filtered for air bubble and aggregate elimination, then reinfused. Average recovered blood rate was 853 ml (640-1087), the retransfused rate was 557 ml (410-727). Preoperative Ht rate was between 38.6% and 42.7% (average 40.8%); in the immediate post operative period (4–6 hours after procedure) Ht rate was between 34.3% and 38.6% (average 36.8%). No stored blood was required. We propose a wider utilization of this procedure for safety and lower cost.