Q: In OR "Cell Saver" technique  (intraoperative autologous transfusion or intraoperative autotransfusion)  is frequently used. Why it is important to wash the blood before infusion back into patient?


Answer: Blood from patient needs to be 

• processed/collected in a sterile, filtered reservoir, 
• centrifuged, which separates and concentrates higher density RBCs 
• washed – with an isotonic solution, and
• reinfused

Salvaged blood should be washed. Unwashed salvaged blood has residual anticoagulant, dysfunctional platelets, thrombogenic substances, free hemoglobin levels, and fat emboli.