Between the period of January 1994 and June 1995, the results of Autotransfusion Program of the Hospital do Aparelho Motor SARAH-BSB were evaluated. the goals of the program are: 1. Minimise and, if possible, eliminate the risks of homologous transfusion; 2. Increase the security, efficiency and cost to benefits relation of the hemotherapic procedures; 3. Minimise the demand of blood products for those patients with difficult compatible blood to be found. The program has received 194 patients, among these, 100 have been selected for this study because they had had blood collection and surgery concluded. The average age of the patients was 34.3 years (11/72 years) median was 30 years and mode 15 years. The patients have undergone elective orthopaedic operations. Autologous transfusions have been made by predeposit and intraoperative salvage (Cell Saver). Six patients (6%) presented mild reactions associated to blcod drawn. Additional homologous blood was needed to 20 (20%) patients. Our experience demonstrates the security and efficiency of transfusion in patients from childhood until elderly. It recommends the creation and expansion of existing programs using autologous transfusion in services with elective surgery. We also consider that nursing care stimulates patients participation in the program.
Autotransfusion; Autologous transfusion; Intraoperative autotransfusion; Predeposit autologous blood; Blood conservation