[Ways of economizing on homologous blood. Concepts of autologous blood transfusion].

Transfusion of homologous blood may be associated with various complications. In this review, the authors present concepts of prevention of homologous blood transfusion. Different autotransfusion techniques are discussed, i.e., predeposit of autologous blood, plasmapheresis, normovolaemic haemodilution, blood salvage with/without cell washing, postoperative blood salvage of drainage blood, anaesthesia and surgical techniques as well as drugs for minimizing blood loss. The third part of the essay deals with indications of each technique depending on the surgical field. The authors conclude with unanswered questions and problems of the future.