Assessment of a new ultrafiltration blood processing system

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Surgical Innovation
• Blood Transfusion Technology

Background:

• Intraoperative autotransfusion aims to minimize homologous blood usage.
• Ultrafiltration is a blood processing technique with potential benefits in autotransfusion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel ultrafiltration blood processing device.
• To assess the quality and quantity of reinfused blood and impact on homologous blood requirements.
• To monitor the clinical status of patients post-transfusion.

Main Methods:

• A prospective clinical study involving six patients undergoing major elective spinal surgery.
• Utilized a new ultrafiltration device for processing intraoperative shed blood.
• Collected blood samples for hematology and biochemistry analysis at multiple time points.
• Recorded blood volumes processed, reinfused, and homologous blood transfusions received.
• Assessed patients post-operatively for adverse effects.

Main Results:

• The ultrafiltration device was utilized in six patients, with five having preoperative blood donation.
• One patient required additional homologous blood products.
• Two instances of filtration cartridge blockage occurred, necessitating cartridge changes.
• No device-related complications were observed in any patient.
• One patient experienced transient postoperative hematuria.

Conclusions:

• The ultrafiltration device demonstrated safety and efficacy in reducing homologous blood requirements in this cohort.
• Further investigation is warranted to address the issue of filtration cartridge blockage.
• The device shows promise as a tool in managing blood loss during major spinal surgery.