Laboratory experience with a new autotransfusion device

J. Welch, H. Weintraub, B. J. Gutterman, L. Cerulli-Irelli, J. R. Hinshaw and H. Harrison

A new device for collecting and administering blood by intraoperative autotransfusion consists of several novel features: a collection bag that is kept expanded by a vacuum and into which the blood is drawn by suction of a lesser degree than the outside vacuum, a crease in the collection bag that decreases turbulence and foaming, and separation of the infusion element from the retrieval system by a valve that allows pressure infusion and suction continously. The apparatus is inexpensive, quickly assembled, operated by wall suction or suction pump. We have had favorable experience with its use in animals.