[Indications and results of autotransfusion. Normovolemic hemodilution in gynecology-obstetrics].

Abstract Considering the importance of haemorrhagic complications in gynaecology-obstetrics and the increasing fear of accidents during blood transfusion, the authors propose, from the literature and the study of 13 cases, a reflection on the indications of deferred autotransfusion (DAT) and of normovolemic haemodilution (NVH). In obstetrics, even if DAT has undoubtedly certain advantages (besides viral contaminations, appearance of allo-antibodies...), it can be indicated at present only for pregnant women exposed to a predictable risk of haemorrhage or for women with a rare blood group. In gynaecology, the authors have not found any significant advantages in our study as regards NVH associated with DAT. However, as in obstetrics, the technique is harmless, and no thrombo-embolic complications have been observed, even in women at high thrombotic risk. These methods are expensive and require qualified personnel. Their exact modalities and indications, as well as their medico-legal aspects, are yet to be defined.