What is cell salvage?
Cell salvage is a process that collects blood from an operating site. This blood is then processed in a cell salvage machine and given back to the patient. This type of blood transfusion where the patient receives their own blood back is called autologous transfusion. The other type of blood transfusion where a patient receives donated blood from the blood bank is called homologous blood transfusion. Using cell salvage means that a patient will receive their own blood back during an operation, and may not require donated blood from the blood bank.
