Autotransfusion in aortic surgery: the Haemocell System 350 cell saver

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Hematology

Background:

• Autotransfusion is a valuable technique for reducing allogeneic blood transfusions.
• Newer devices aim to improve the efficiency and safety of intraoperative blood salvage.
• The Haemocell System 350 represents a novel approach to cell separation for autotransfusion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the Haemocell System 350 for intraoperative autotransfusion.
• To assess the quality of salvaged blood components.
• To monitor for any adverse effects of the autotransfusion process.

Main Methods:

• Autotransfusion using the Haemocell System 350 during elective abdominal aortic reconstruction in 10 patients.
• Measurement of salvaged blood volume and autotransfused volume.
• Analysis of cellular component preservation (including platelets).
• Assessment of coagulation parameters, plasma hemoglobin, and heparin levels.
• Evaluation of oxyhemoglobin dissociation curves and organ function.

Main Results:

• A mean of 60% of total blood loss was salvaged.
• Good preservation of cellular components, including platelets, was observed.
• No coagulopathy or significant adverse effects were noted.
• Slightly elevated plasma hemoglobin and negligible heparin levels were recorded post-surgery.
• Transient drops in fibrinogen and low concentrations of fibrin degradation products were seen.
• Salvaged red blood cells demonstrated normal oxygen affinity.
• Renal and hepatic function remained unaltered.

Conclusions:

• The Haemocell System 350 is an effective and safe device for intraoperative autotransfusion.
• It allows for significant blood salvage with good preservation of cellular components.
• The device is user-friendly and does not require a specialized operator, making it suitable for clinical use.