Autotransfusion is commonly used intraoperatively and postoperatively. Intraoperative autotransfusion refers to the recovery of blood lost during surgery or the concentration of fluid in an extracorporeal circuit. Postoperative autotransfusion refers to the recovery of blood in the extracorporeal circuit or from aspirated drainage at the end of surgery.

Advantages of Autotransfusion;
High 2.3-DPG levels - Normothermic - Relatively normal pH - Lower risk of infectious disease - Functionally superior cells - High Hct - Lower potassium
May reduce the need for allogeneic red cell transfusion during certain surgeries such as adult elective cardiac and orthopedic surgery.