Clinical usefulness of autologous transfusion--history, methodologies and problems with popularization

Autologous transfusion(AT), using the patient's own blood for replacement during operation, is the most useful blood replacement method, as the blood is a perfect match for the patient. It can prevent alloimmunization and introduced viral infections completely. Predeposition, Hemodilution and Salvage are the three methods of collection. Each has already had sophisticated techniques developed for clinical application. Unfortunately, AT requires extensive man-power and is expensive. For these reasons, AT has been slow to gain popularity in the surgical field in Japan. For popularization of AT to be successful, not only must we have sufficient knowledge to implement these complicated techniques, but we must also build an AT center staffed by several specialists in each hospital.