Abstract: A device for collecting and filtering blood from a surgical site during an operation and returning the blood to the patient after further treatment in a separate treatment apparatus. The device includes a cylindrical container and a cover assembly with a correspondingly sized cover. An exapandable plastic pouch extends from the cover into the container. A filter screen is provided within the pouch to coarsely filter incoming blood. A compressed air source is connected to a suction pipe to produce a vacuum within the container. Collected blood may be drawn off by a hose within the pouch leading to a separate treatment device, or may be drained from the bottom of the pouch.