Early experience with pre-deposit autotransfusion in elective orthopaedic surgery

Area of Science:

• Transfusion Medicine
• Surgical Blood Management
• Orthopaedic Surgery

Background:

• Pre-deposit autotransfusion (PDAT) is an established method for autologous blood provision for planned surgeries.
• Homologous blood transfusions carry inherent risks, necessitating alternatives like PDAT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate preliminary experiences with PDAT as an alternative to homologous blood transfusion.
• To assess the safety, efficacy, and patient satisfaction with PDAT in elective orthopaedic surgery.

Main Methods:

• Patients suitable for donation according to guidelines pre-donated autologous blood prior to elective surgery.
• The number of units donated and the requirement for homologous blood post-donation were recorded.
• Complications and donor satisfaction were assessed.

Main Results:

• 31 patients pre-donated 59 units of autologous blood over 24 weeks.
• 94% of patients underwent surgery, and 83% did not require additional homologous blood.
• Minor reactions occurred in 3.6% of donations, with overall high donor satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Pre-deposit autotransfusion is a safe and effective alternative to homologous transfusion in elective orthopaedic surgery.
• PDAT can significantly reduce the need for allogeneic blood products in this patient population.