Emergency autotransfusion in hypovolemia.

Autotransfusion as a technique in managing hypovolemia has been enjoying renewed popularity. Autotransfusion from hemothorax is the most common application of the procedure; this consists of collection, anticoagulation, and retransfusion. The advantages include compatibility, no time delay required in laboratory type and crossmatch, and no transmission of disease. The use of autologous blood in managing hypovolemia in chest trauma has proven to be a practical and beneficial adjunct to traditional fluid and homologous blood therapy and should be considered by every emergency department.