Initial experience of intra-operative red cell salvage

The use of red cell saving machines is described in 16 cases of aortic reconstruction. There were 3 deaths in the series, all unrelated to use of the technique. Salvaged autologous blood accounted for 45% of red cell requirements. Biochemical and haematologic parameters were monitored before, during and after operation. When large volumes of blood are salvaged, the system becomes cost effective and the risks of homologous transfusion are reduced.