Alleviation of autotransfusion-induced haematological damage by corticosteroids.

Thrombocytopenia and haemolysis in intraoperative autotransfusion result mainly from extravascular tissue contact and therefore are not correctable by mechanical improvements in the autotransfusion apparatus. Instead, attention must be directed towards prevention of blood 'recognition' of extravascular tissue or stabilization of blood components against this damage. Methylprednisolone is shown to be effective in alleviating red cell and platelet damage induced by intraoperative autotransfusion in the canine model.