Recently, there has been an increase in the number of open-heart surgery, particulary of coronary artery bypass procedure. The amount of blood for the support of cardiac bypass surgery has been much more required.
In 30 patients who underwent open-heart surgery from September 1976, the Haemonetics Cell Saver was used for hems concentration of the extracorpareal perfusate. The concentrate blood was divided into two group, washed group with saline salution (the 22 patient's blood) and non-washed group (the 6 patient's blood).
Following tests were performed on each case; hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelet counts, fibrinogen concentration, total serum protein, red cell resistance, partial thromboplastine time, prothrombine time and electrolytes (Na, K, Ca, Mg). Platelet count, fibrinogen concentration and total serum protein were more remained in group II than in group I. Both serum Ca and Mg showed no difference.
13 patients received transfusion of concentrated in ICU.
Postoperative bleeding through thoracic drain was less in group II than in group I.
