ABSTRACT
Objective:
In open heart surgery, blood-preserving autotransfusion systems that centrifuge the aspirated blood and separate the erythrocytes have been frequently used to recirculate the blood accumulated in the surgical area and minimize complications. It is aimed to investigate the hemodynamic, hemostatic, and inflammatory effects of autotransfusion or cardiotomy aspirator use in open heart surgery patients.
Materials and Methods:
In this study, patients who use a cardiotomy reservoir (group 1, n=27) and patients who used autotransfusion (group 2, n=27) in open heart surgery were compared retrospectively. All patients’ demographic characteristics, hemodynamic and laboratory data, operational and postoperative follow-up data were recorded. SPSS Statics 22 program was used for statistical analysis.
Results:
In our study, with the use of autotransfusion, an average of 774 mL of autotransfusion blood was reinfused to the patients and more negative postoperative balance was found compared to the classical cardiotomy aspirator system. Although there was no significant difference in terms of intensive care unit stay of the patients, the duration of ventilation and hospital stay were found to be statistically shorter in the autotransfusion group. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and thrombocyte values, and the use of erythrocyte suspension and fresh frozen plasma. Complications such as hemolysis and infection were not encountered.
Conclusion:
The autotransfusion system should be considered as a safe and effective blood sparing method in patients with low preoperative hemoglobin, rare blood group, or multiple antibodies, especially in major surgeries with high bleeding risk.