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Cell Salvage Gynaecological Surgery — FRCA Final MCQ

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ModerateAnaesthetic Equipment & SafetyCell Salvage Gynaecological SurgeryFRCA Final

A 50-year-old woman (ASA III) is having a total abdominal hysterectomy. Cell salvage is set up. Intra-operatively the surgeons encounter unexpected endometriosis. Can cell salvage continue to be used?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — Yes – provided a leucodepletion filter is used on the salvaged blood

Cell salvage in gynaecological surgery, including cases with endometriosis, is now considered acceptable provided a leucodepletion filter is used on the reinfusion line. Previous concerns about reinfusing endometrial cells have not been substantiated by evidence. NICE recommends cell salvage be available during major surgery where significant blood loss is anticipated. The Association of Anaesthetists (2018) guidelines support its use in obstetric and gynaecological surgery with leucodepletion filtration.

Reference: Association of Anaesthetists – 2018 – Cell salvage guidelines; NICE – 2015 – NG24 Blood transfusion