Autotransfusion and emergency surgery: preliminary report on an improved technique.

A new improved technique of erythrocyte autotransfusion is described. Autologous blood aspirated from the operative field is centrifuged, washed and reinfused in 5-10 minutes. The systems is composed of a centrifuge and vacuum pump built into the machine. The disposable set is very easy to assemble, and cost-effective. Preliminary data of 19 patients operated as emergency cases are shown. None had postoperative bleeding. Platelet count and function did not change. Even in the cirrhotic patients there were no changes in coagulation two hours after autotransfusion. The system seems easy to use, cost-effective and particularly indicated in emergency surgery.