Journal of clinical anesthesia
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To review the basic pathophysiology of altered coagulation associated with cardiopulmonary bypass and autologous blood transfusion in cardiac surgery. ⋯ Coagulation disorders in cardiac surgery are caused by many factors, such as heparin, platelet dysfunction, and fibrinolysis. Rational use of blood component therapy and medications such as heparin, protamine, and desmopressin are mandatory. Autologous blood transfusion is very useful in decreasing or obviating the use of homologous blood transfusion.