The Haemonetics Cell Saver 5 Autologous Blood Recovery System (CS 5) represents the fifth generation since the introduction of the first successful autologous blood collection system, the original Cell Saver 1 System. Using the latest microprocessor technology, the Cell Saver 5 system delivers a high level of automation in the processing of autologous blood. Operator interaction and surveillance are minimized by the use of a sensor which automatically detects the level of fluid in the reservoir and initiates device operation. Processing time has also been reduced while maintaining the highest quality end product. The Haemonetics Cell Saver 5+ system and its related accessory devices are intended to be used for the recov- ery of blood shed during or after an opera- tion, or as the result of trauma. The shed blood is collected in a sterile reser- voir, then processed by the Cell Saver system in a centrifuge bowl to pack red blood cells (RBCs), then washed to remove cell stroma, platelets, acti- vated clotting factors, extracellular potassium, free hemoglobin, anticoagu- lant, and cardioplegia. /br> The washed, packed RBCs may then be pumped to a bag for gravity reinfusion to the patient, or, to the arterial line of an extracorporeal circuit for reinfusion to the patient