Tumor cells carried through autotransfusion. Contraindication to intraoperative blood recovery?

AUTOTRANSFUSION in various forms is a well-recognized and accepted mode of support therapy during major surgical procedures where blood loss is likely or unavoidable. Fecal contamination and spillage of malignant cells have been stated to be contraindications to intraoperative blood recovery, without substantial proof of either contention. Recently, during the care of a patient with carcinoma of the lung, we had occasion to substantiate the transfer of tumor cells from the operative field to blood transfer packs via an autotransfusor. Report of a Case A 52-year-old man was admitted to the Marion County General Hospital with a four-week history of hemoptysis, weakness, anorexia, and an 11- to 14-kg (25- to 30-1b) weight loss. He had had a previous episode of hemoptysis about ten years before this admission, a chronic cough, and a 90- to 100-pack/yr smoking habit. The patient appeared cachectic and chronically ill, and was having constant hemoptysis. Blood