Preoperative autologous blood collection and haemodilution with gelatin solution (gelifundol).

Autologous blood collection and haemodilution with gelatin solution had an effect on the decrease in red blood cells, haemoglobin, haemotocrit, fibrinogen and platelets; however, this technique had no effect on coagulograms, platelet function and haemostasis. In conclusion, this technique is suitable and possibly practical in obtaining sufficient blood for elective surgical patients and is without any undesirable side effects.