Experimental and clinical investigations on the transfusion of autologous blood in urological operations.
In view of the known risks in homologous blood transfusions, the procedures for transfusion of endogenous blood are gaining increasing importance. Using this fact as a basis, the feasibility of direct intraoperative autotransfusion in the area of urology was investigated. 6 mongrel dogs received blood-urine autotransfusions after cystotomy and cavotomy (n = 2) as well as after left-side nephrotomy (n = 4). Coagulation and hemolysis parameters were examined 1, 2, 24 h and 7 days after the autotransfusion, and showed transitory pathological changes which were, without exception, reversible within 7 days. Clinical effects were not observed. On the basis of favorable experience, the intraoperative, machine autotransfusion was also used clinically for renal traumas (n = 13), urinary bladder traumas (n = 4) and nephrotomies (n = 3). Postoperative checks showed pathological changes in the hemolysis and coagulation values only during the first 3 postoperative days. The blood-urine autotransfusion was well tolerated without exception. Indications and contraindications for direct intraoperative autotransfusions in the area of urological operations are discussed.