Autotransfusion

Autotransfusion or autologous blood transfusion is an alternative to homologous transfusion. This work describes techniques for economizing on the use of blood in surgery, including intentional normovolemic haemodilution which alters the blood's rheological properties.

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Autotransfusion or autologous blood transfusion is an alternative to homologous transfusion. This work describes techniques for economizing on the use of blood in surgery, including intentional normovolemic haemodilution which alters the blood's rheological properties. Other techniques described include programmed deferred autotransfusion and preoperative saving and recirculation of blood, which may help avoid the risk of transmitting viral diseases such as hepatitis and HIV infection and which also has the advantage of satisfying the wishes of religious sects such as Jehovah's Witnesses.