[Autotransfusion with previously deposited blood units].

This article analyzes the results obtained in the development of a Prior Deposited Self-Transfusion Program among patients who plan to have orthopedic or kidney surgery. The 69 patients in this program deposited 183 blood unit, 2.6 units/patients with a range of 1 to 5, of which 153 were transfused. The initial hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were 14.3 g/dl (range 11.4-16.8) and 43.3% (range 36-50) respectively; at the end of this self-transfusion program, these values were 12.4 g/dl (range 10.0-15.6) and 37.7% (range 31-48). A homologous transfusion was avoided in 88.4% of the cases. This Self-Transfusion Program is safe and effective, easy to implement, well-tolerated and can be carried out with an acceptable risk level for patients.