Which precaution should be observed when using microfibrillar collagen intraoperatively?

• A. Use it with any autologous blood salvage unit
• B. Avoid mixing it with other hemostatic agents
• C. Avoid using it with an autologous blood salvage unit
• D. Only use it if no other hemostatic agents are available

Answer: (C)

When using microfibrillar collagen intraoperatively, it is essential to avoid using it with an autologous blood salvage unit. This is primarily due to the fact that microfibrillar collagen can interfere with the processing and quality of the salvaged blood. Using microfibrillar collagen in conjunction with an autologous blood recovery system can lead to contamination of the collected blood, making it less viable and potentially harmful if reinfused. This precaution ensures that the salvaged blood remains free from any foreign substances that might compromise patient safety and the effectiveness of the transfusion.

Other options may suggest using microfibrillar collagen with other agents or under specific circumstances, but these do not align with the critical guideline of maintaining the integrity of autologous blood when using microfibrillar collagen.