Autotransfusion in dogs using a 2-syringe technique

Objective To describe the successful use of an autotransfusion technique utilizing 2 syringes in 4 dogs. Case Series Summary All 4 dogs in this series had a hemoabdomen and subsequent hypovolemic shock. During surgery blood was collected from the abdominal cavity by the surgeon and passed to an assistant. The blood was then transferred to a second syringe for direct IV administration. The blood was passed through an inline blood filter prior to reaching the patient. Given the transfusion volume and administration time frame, 3 cases were classified as a massive transfusion. All 4 dogs survived the transfusion, were discharged within 3 days of surgery/transfusion and no complications were noted. New or Unique Information Provided This case series describes a relatively simple method of performing an autotransfuion in patients with hemoabdomen and hypovolemic shock.