Is ACD-A required for the Post-operative Orthopedic System?
We recommend the use of an Anticoagulant prior to collection of shed blood into an AUTOVAC® system. There is controversy on the use of such Anticoagulant in Post-operative Orthopedic Systems. It is believed that the blood shed in an Orthopedic application is defibrinated and therefore unable to clot. This is evidenced by the fact that many orthopedic drainage cases are clot free. The process whereby defibrination can take place is complex and relies upon controlled blood loss. In cases of rapid blood loss, the complete process of defibrination may not take place and clotting in the system can occur. Since it is not practical to predict which cases will occur at a high rate of loss, it is reasonable to recommend use of a citrate anticoagulant to ensure proper functioning of the system under all circumstances.
