Intraoperative red blood cell salvage in cancer surgery

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Surgery in cancer patients may sometimes involve significant blood loss, and intraoperative red blood cell salvage is an effective technique that can reduce postoperative complications. Autologous reinfusion of red blood cells processed by a cell saver machine significantly reduces the number of red blood cell transfusions from donors. The use of leukocyte filters eliminates the possibility of tumor cell release into the patient’s circulation. This method is easy to use, however medical staff should be appropriately trained in cell salvage. Intraoperative red blood cell salvage can and should be used in the management of patients undergoing planned or emergency surgeries with expected blood loss > 500 mL.