autotransfusión

Autotransfusion, also known as autologous blood transfusion, is a medical procedure where a patient's own blood is collected, stored, and then reinfused back into the same patient. This process is typically performed to reduce the risks associated with allogeneic transfusion, which involves receiving blood from a donor. Allogeneic transfusions can carry risks such as transfusion reactions, transmission of infectious diseases, and alloimmunization, where the recipient develops antibodies against foreign blood cells.

There are several methods of autotransfusion. Preoperative autologous donation (PAD) involves the patient donating blood units in the weeks leading up to a scheduled surgery. This donated blood is then stored and available for use during or after the procedure if needed. Another method is intraoperative cell salvage, where blood lost during surgery is collected, washed, and reinfused immediately. This is commonly used in procedures with expected significant blood loss, such as orthopedic or cardiac surgeries. Acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) is a technique where blood is removed just before surgery, and the patient's blood volume is replaced with crystalloid or colloid solutions. The removed blood is then returned to the patient after the surgical bleeding has stopped.

Autotransfusion is generally considered safe and effective, particularly for patients who may have difficulty finding compatible donor blood or who wish to minimize exposure to donor blood. However, it is not without limitations. PAD requires sufficient time before surgery, and ANH and cell salvage are only applicable during specific surgical contexts. The decision to use autotransfusion is made on a case-by-case basis by the medical team, considering the patient's health status, the nature of the planned procedure, and potential risks and benefits.