In preparation for surgery, you donate your own blood and have Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) store it for you until your surgery.
Who can donate?
Most people are candidates for an autologous donation. You should be in good health and free of infection at the time of donation. Some conditions may prevent you from donating blood or may require consultation between KBC's Medical Director and your physician. These conditions include:
- A history of heart problems
- A history of circulatory problems
- Recent or current medications for infections
If you are younger than 17-years of age, you must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for your autologous donation.
How can I arrange to store my own blood?
A prescription from your physician is required for an autologous donation. Either you or your physician should make an appointment by calling KBC. Request forms can be mailed or hand delivered at your first appointment. Bring your driver's license or some other form of personal identification.
How many units of blood can I donate?
The number of units (or pints) will be determined by your physician. This decision will depend on:
- Your physical condition
- The type of surgery
- The date of the scheduled surgery
Since blood can be stored for up to 42 days, you may begin storing blood six weeks prior to surgery. Your last donation must be no fewer than 72 hours (three days) before surgery. The minimum recommended time between autologous donations is seven days. Remember to eat and drink something within three hours of your donation appointment.
What is the fee for an autologous donation?
Your hospital bill will include the normal processing charge for each unit of blood you receive. This fee is routinely covered by most insurance policies.
What about testing?
All blood collected by KBC--including autologous--undergoes the same extensive testing.
What if it turns out I don't need the blood donated for my use?
Units of unused autologous blood are not made available for general community use and must be destroyed.
For information about autologous donations, contact KBC Donor/Patient Services Coordinator Pat Cooper.
