[Intra- and postoperative autotransfusion--a quality analysis]

In clinical practice intra- and postoperative autotransfusion is well established, especially in combination with other blood saving techniques (praeoperative blood deposit, praeoperative plasmapheresis and normovolaemic haemodilution). During autotransfusion red blood cells should be separated and washed in physiological saline to remove plasma free haemoglobin, potassium, intracellular enzymes and triglycerides as well as anticoagulant, activated clotting factors and debris. After knowing the mechanism of the recently developed autotransfusion devices (Haemonetics Cell Saver or Dideco Autotrans) acceptance of this procedure is very high in anaesthesiologists and surgeons due to microelectronic equipment. Considering the contraindications (bacterial contamination of the operative field and cancer surgery) intra- and postoperative autotransfusion is a very safe procedure for the patient undergoing major operations.