Intraoperative Red Blood Cell Salvage in Posterior Spinal Fusions for Idiopathic Scoliosis: Guidelines for Selective Use

Abstract

Purpose: What are the patient and surgical factors which impact the cost-effectiveness of Intraoperative cell salvage (ICS) during primary posterior spinal fusions (PSF) for idiopathic scoliosis (IS). ICS can be useful in avoiding allogeneic transfusions, however it adds substantial charges ($800 - 1200 US) and requires larger volumes of blood loss in order to provide benefit. This study evaluates the role and effectiveness of ICS in primary PSF surgeries for pediatric IS patients. Methods: 180 primary, consecutive …