[Autologous blood transfusion in orthopedic surgery patients]

During a 16-month period, blood for autologous transfusion treatment was taken in 186/788 (23.6%) orthopedic patients. Vasovagal reactions during blood withdrawal were observed in 8.6% of patients. Transfusiologic treatment with autologous blood alone was carried out in 134 (72%) patients. In 36 (19.4%) patients, homologous blood was given in addition to autologous blood. Withdrawal of the required blood unites could not be completed in 33 (17.7%) patients. In this group of patients, the need of homologous blood transfusion was highest (39.3%). In 98.3% of patients, mean values of hemoglobin and hematocrit immediately before the surgical procedure exceeded 100 g/L and 30%, respectively.