O1365 Autotransfusion in Total Knee Arthroplasty

Aims: Evaluation of the efficacy of autotransfusion in reducing the need for homologous blood transfusion in total knee arthroplasty. Methods: Prospective randomized study. Patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty were divided in: Group A (72 patients) receiving autotransfusion (Suretrans) and control group B (30 patients) with suction drainage only. Preoperative Hb and demographics of the two groups were comparable. The level of Hb was followed for the first 5 days postoperatively. The amount of homologous blood transfused was also recorded. Results: The average autotransfusion volume in group A was 405±191ml. On the day of the operation and the first postoperative day the Hb in group A was found statistically significantly higher (p Conclusions: there is a statistically significant reduction in the need for blood transfusion by using an autotransfusion system reducing also the possible dangers and complications. Autotransfusion is a simple, safe and cost effective method.