What is postoperative blood salvage?

Postoperative blood salvage (PBS) is a procedure used during or immediately after surgery to collect and reinfuse a patient's own blood that has been lost during the procedure. This blood is then returned to the patient through a vein, helping to reduce the need for blood transfusions and conserve the patient's own blood supply.

PBS is typically performed in operating rooms or surgical suites, and it involves the use of a special device called a cell saver. The cell saver collects the patient's blood from the surgical field, filters it to remove debris, and then returns it to the patient's circulation.

There are several advantages to using PBS, including:

-Reduced risk of infection: Because the patient is receiving their own blood, there is no risk of transmitting infections from a donor.

-Reduced risk of transfusion reactions: Transfusion reactions can occur when a patient's immune system reacts to foreign blood antigens. PBS eliminates this risk.

-Improved wound healing: The use of PBS can help to improve wound healing by providing a continuous supply of oxygen-rich blood to the surgical site.

-Reduced length of hospital stay: PBS can help reduce the length of hospital stay by decreasing the need for blood transfusions and improving wound healing.

-Cost savings: PBS can help save money by reducing the need for blood transfusions and other blood products.

Overall, PBS is a safe and effective procedure that can help to reduce the need for blood transfusions and improve patient outcomes after surgery.