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Published on: October 14, 2013
Blood salvage after total hip arthroplasty
D C Ayers1, D G Murray, D M Duerr
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, State University of New York Health Science Center at Syracuse 13202, USA.
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume
|September 1, 1995
Summary
Postoperative reinfusion of filtered, salvaged blood reduced homologous transfusions in total hip replacement patients lacking autologous blood. This method proved safe and effective for managing transfusion needs.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Transfusion Medicine
- Patient Blood Management
Background:
- Total hip replacement (THR) often necessitates blood transfusions.
- Autologous blood donation is a common preoperative strategy.
- Alternative methods for managing perioperative blood loss are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of postoperative autologous blood salvage and reinfusion.
- To determine the impact on homologous blood transfusion requirements in THR patients.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, randomized study of 232 THR patients.
- Comparison of postoperative blood salvage (Autovac) versus closed suction drainage (Hemovac).
- Collection and reinfusion of unwashed, filtered, salvaged blood within six hours postoperatively.
Main Results:
- No complications were observed during or after reinfusion of salvaged blood.
- Postoperative reinfusion was associated with decreased homologous transfusion rates.
- This benefit was noted particularly in patients without preoperatively donated autologous blood.
Conclusions:
- Postoperative collection and reinfusion of unwashed, filtered, salvaged blood is a safe procedure.
- It effectively reduces the need for homologous transfusions in THR patients.
- This technique is a viable option for patients not utilizing preoperative autologous blood donation.
