Do the risks of Cell Saver during Lipo360 outweigh the benefit?

Question

A lot of Plastic Surgeons in Miami recommend cell saver during lipo360 and it is mandatory with a 2nd round of lipo and/or if your HGB is less than 12. I understand the need for cellsaver if you are undergoing sx for a ruptured AAA or large orthopedic case but wonder if it is warranted with liposuction. QUESTION: 1 - are there any risks associated such as sepsis or HIT? 2 - do the risks outweigh the benefit? 3 - does the lidocaine in the solution pose a threat or is it completely washed out?

Elan Reisin, MD, FACS · Answer

Honestly, if cell saver is offered to you or discussed I would run away! I have never and will never need to offer transfusion for elective procedure . If I did , it would mean that it is more than elective , but necessary. I cannot imagine the need for cell saver for liposuction or any other procedure unless I’m performing a risky elective procedure

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

These are questions that should be asked to your surgeon because each patient is different and you need to know answers related to your specific case. Of course, a medical clearance is necessary before surgery and will determine if you are eligible. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I have not found cell saver to be necessary or useful in these procedures.  The surgery can be shortened or the number of procedures reduced.In general, 12 is adequate for surgery if attention to hemostasis is meticulous.  This is dependent upon a host of factors including the amount of surgery performed, the cause of the anemia if present, and the treatment necessary to improve that anemia.  In an otherwise healthy person without anemia or other consuming disease, there is usually nothing that needs to be done.  The HgB does not have to be artificially elevated for surgery.  Lipo can be performed for most individuals with a hemoglobin above 10 or 11.

S. Alexander Earle, MD, FACS · Answer

That is a bit misleading based on how you asses the risks associated with cell saver. Each surgery proposes unavoidable risks. Cell saver is vital to patients with low HGB or Patients who essentially want to feel better after surgery. Blood loss occurs during all liposuction cases but the blood loss should never be substantial where cell saver is mandatory. Each Liposuction case begins with tumescent solution which contains epinephrine that causes blood vessels to vasoconstrict which reduces blood loss. Dr. S. Alexander Earle

Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Pure Plastic Surgery

Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon 
Pure Plastic Surgery

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Lady63,
cell saver is a great thing for some surgeries but in case of liposuction it is not frequently used. But every plastic surgeon has his own protocol which he uses. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD

Do the risks of Cell Saver during Lipo360 outweigh the benefit?

Answers (5)