Cell salvage

What is cell salvage? 

Cell salvage is when we collect blood you have lost during an operation, and  give it back to you. 

The blood collected is washed and filtered to remove any contaminants (things that shouldn’t be there). This blood can then be given back to you if the doctor thinks a blood transfusion is required. It is sometimes called autologous blood transfusion (using your own blood). 

We regularly use cell salvage at Southmead Hospital for many types of surgery. 

Why might I need a transfusion? 

It is normal when having major surgery to have some blood loss during the procedure. In some cases this can be a large amount and will require the blood to be replaced by giving a blood transfusion. Blood used for these transfusions can either be: 

• A supply of donor blood from volunteers; or
• Your own blood (by using cell salvage blood). 

What are the benefits of using cell salvage blood? 

Use of cell salvage can reduce the need for a blood transfusion using donor blood, which is in short supply and expensive. 

Although the risk associated with receiving a blood transfusion from a donor are low, there are still a very small risk of infections being passed on (1 in 500,000 for Hepatitis B, 1 in 30 million for Hepatitis C, 1 in 5 million for HIV, less than 1 in 2 million for vCJD). Having your own blood returned to you removes these risks. 

Donor blood is also stored before transfusion and this affects it. For instance, stored blood does not carry oxygen as well. Having your own blood returned to you straight away reduces these problems. Cell salvage is sometimes seen as an acceptable choice for those who for religious reasons will not accept a blood transfusion using donated blood. 

Why isn’t it suitable for everyone? 

Not all operations cause enough blood loss to allow cell salvage to be used. For some operations cell salvage is not recommended, for example some bowel surgeries. 

What does this mean for you? 

This information aims to help you make an informed decision on whether you would prefer cell salvage blood should you need a blood transfusion during your operation. 

If you have any questions about cell salvage which are not answered by this information, please discuss them with your anaesthetist. 

© North Bristol NHS Trust. This edition published January 2026. Review due January 2029. NBT003048.