OBJECTIVE: To assess a new technique of hemoconcentration and the necessity of blood derivative transfusion. METHOD: Eighty-six male (61.4%) and 54 female (38.6%) patients submitted to heart surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass were divided into two groups of 70 patients each according to conventional technique of blood preparation (Group A) and the use of the new technique of hemoconcentration. RESULTS: The hemoconcentration technique is feasible and did not alter the intra- and postoperative complications of the patients. The amount of blood and plasma used during and after cardiopulmonary bypass was less in Group B patients. Moreover, the fluid balance after cardiopulmonary bypassin this group was better when compared to the Group A patients. CONCLUSIONS: The new technique of hemoconcentration was efficient regarding removal of fluids, allowed a better use of oxygenator residual contents and decreased the amounts of blood derivatives used during and after cardiopulmonary bypass.
Hemofiltration; Cardiac surgical procedures; Blood transfusion, autologous; Extracorporeal circulation