Listen
In this episode, host Alyssa Watson, DVM, is joined by Sarah Musulin, DVM, DACVECC, to discuss her recent Clinician’s Brief article, “How to Perform Autotransfusion in Veterinary Medicine.” Dr. Musulin details how and when—or when not—to autotransfuse, including several expert tips and a few pitfalls to avoid.
This episode is brought to you by Zoetis.
Watch
Key Takeaways
In cases of hemorrhage, transfusion is indicated if 1) a patient is hemodynamically unstable and 2) more than 30 mL/kg of crystalloids have already been given and/or 3) more than 30% of blood volume has been lost.
Autotransfusion is a “salvage” procedure; you’re salvaging cavitary hemorrhage from a patient and giving that blood back when standard transfusion is not an option.
The cavity is entered sterilely using a catheter (ideally fenestrated) and the blood is withdrawn into a makeshift closed collection system and administered intravenously.
Septic hemorrhage (eg, a septic abdomen) should be avoided, but autotransfusing from a neoplastic hemorrhage can be justified.
If you’re going to try this, be extremely diligent about aseptic technique, use the proper filters, and maybe even have a collection system set-up ahead of time.
Resource:
Contact:
Where To Find Us:
Website: CliniciansBrief.com/Podcasts
YouTube: Youtube.com/@clinicians_brief
Facebook: Facebook.com/CliniciansBrief
LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/showcase/CliniciansBrief/
Instagram: @Clinicians.Brief
The Team:
Alyssa Watson, DVM - Host
Alexis Ussery - Producer & Multimedia Specialist