RESUMO
BACKGROUND: CATS(Plus) (continuous autotransfusion system, Fresenius Kabi, Friedberg, Germany) is a continuous, chamber type cell salvage system for performing an intraoperative autologous transfusion. We evaluated the quality of intraoperative salvaged red blood cells processed by CATS(Plus). METHODS: A total 20 adult patients undergone lumbar spine surgery were enrolled in this study. Laboratory tests including albumin, potassium, free hemoglobin, and bacterial culture were performed and the % albumin removal was calculated. RESULTS: The average albumin, potassium, and free hemoglobin concentration were 4 g/L, 4.86 mEq/L, 4.50 g/L, respectively. Mean albumin removal was 87%. Bacterial culture was positive in 11 of the 20 cases and staphylococcus species were isolated in all of the culture positive cases. CONCLUSION: For safe use of salvaged red blood cells, laboratory tests for potassium and free hemoglobin concentration would be necessary before administration.