Who Can Store Their Own Blood for Surgery?
Physicians encourage patients undergoing certain elective surgical procedures to store their own blood in anticipation of their transfusion needs. This "autologous" transfusion is the safest possible option for some patients.

Storing blood for autologous transfuion is simple. Your physician contacts the Blood Center to request that your blood be collected for storage prior to surgery. After consulting with your physician, a Blood Center representative contacts you to schedule the collection procedure.

Autologous collection of blood begins about four weeks before a scheduled surgery because blood can only be stored for 35 days. For optimal patient benefit, collections should begin at least 10 to 14 days prior to scheduled surgery. The final collection occurs no later than five working days before the surgery. One unit (pint) is taken at each collection appointment. Your physician will determine how many units you will need to store, depending on anticipated transfusion needs. If you do not require the blood you have stored, it will be discarded. The Blood Center charges a fee for collecting, testing and processing your blood, regardless of whether or not you use the blood.

In certain cases, children may make autuolgous blood donations. Ask your physician if this procedure is suitable for your child.

For more information about autologous transfusion:

1. Call (206) 292-6588, or
2. Contact your physician