title: Intraoperative blood salvage and autotransfusion in the management of ruptured ectopic pregnancy: a review.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To review the role of intraoperative blood salvage and autologous blood transfusion in the management of ruptured ectopic pregnancy.
  
  
  METHODS
  A complete review of relevant current and old literature using the MEDLINE search strategy.
  
  
  METHODS
  Papers were selected for their relevance to the topic. Preference was for use of blood salvage and autotransfusion in ectopic pregnancy. Other related studies dealing with the use of intraperitoneal blood were also reviewed.
  
  
  METHODS
  Papers were read and analysed. The information on the properties of intraperitoneal blood, the indications, contraindications, complications as well as the techniques for its use were synthesised for the current article.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Based on reviewed information, intraoperative blood salvage and autotransfusion is a simple, effective and safe method of blood replacement. Its use should be of primary consideration in the management of ruptured ectopic pregnancy.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Southend Hospital, Prittlewell Chase, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, SSO ORY, U.K.
authors.forename: D O
authors.initials: DO
authors.lastname: Selo-Ojeme
mesh_terms: D001804:Blood Transfusion, Autologous / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D011271:Pregnancy, Ectopic / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D012422:Rupture, Spontaneous