[Blood autotransfusion in vascular surgery (predeposited blood)]

The study covers 100 patients, candidates both anamnestically and clinically for autologous blood transfusion. Practically elective patients for reconstructive vascular surgery are concerned. The amount of predonated blood (500 or 1000 ml) depends on the type of operation. A number of indices are followed up: Hb alterations--baseline and after 500 and 1000 ml blood predeposition, Ht alterations--baseline and after 1000 ml blood predeposition, as well as changes in blood protein level following 1000 ml blood predonated. Also, an assessment is made of coagulation factors before and after 1000 ml blood predonation, as well as the optimal longevity of blood storage in refrigerator (the so-called "blood aging"), expressed by K+ levels is stored blood. The studies are carried out in the clinic of vascular surgery of the St. Catherine over the period 1991-1992. As shown by the results autohemotransfusion is a safe, practical and effective procedure, accomplished in one or two stages--only 500 ml blood predonated with 2-3 days interval until operation, and 1000 ml blood predonated in two stages--2-3 days between first and second exfusion, and 3-4 days between the latter and operation. Autohemotransfusion is well tolerated and useful when properly indicated.