Intraoperative autologous transfusion of hemolyzed blood.

During two cases of lumbar spine surgery with instrumentation, we used intraoperative autologous transfusion (IAT), resulting in hemolysis during collection and hemoglobinuria and coagulation abnormalities after transfusion. Hemolysis during IAT collection can lead to hemoglobinuria and binding of nitric oxide, leading to vasoconstriction. The literature suggests that stroma from damaged cells and contact of the blood with the IAT device can lead to coagulation abnormalities and other morbidities, including adult respiratory distress syndrome.