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Blood Bank

Blood Bank

The blood supply in the United States is subjected to such extensive testing that it is currently regarded as the safest blood transfusion system in the world. Some patients may, however, wish to participate in an autologous blood program, in which they donate their own blood days or weeks before a scheduled surgery. Then at the time of their surgical procedure, they can be transfused with their own blood, thus avoiding many, but not all, risks associated with transfusion.

Southwest Healthcare System has made arrangements with the San Diego Blood Bank to enable our patients to participate in such autologous blood programs. Patients who wish to have their own blood available for a scheduled surgery should discuss this with their physicians, who can counsel them as to whether they would be medically able to donate for themselves. If the patient and physician decide that autologous donations would be appropriate, the patient should contact the Blood Bank at 800-479-3902 to obtain details on how to arrange such donations.

Sometimes a patient cannot donate blood and would prefer to have a family member or a close friend donate blood specifically for his or her use. The San Diego Blood Bank can also help patients arrange these  "directed" or "designated" donations. Again, patients should discuss this with their physicians, who must authorize such donations.

Related Links

Patients and their family members may want to learn more about the blood supply and the issues of safety and availability of blood for transfusion. Excellent sources of information on the Internet include:
 
American Red Cross Blood Services
 
America's Blood Centers
 
American Association of Blood Banks
 
San Diego Blood Bank

Note: The information on this Web site is provided as general health guidelines and may not be applicable to your particular health condition. Your individual health status and any required medical treatments can only be properly addressed by a professional healthcare provider of your choice. Remember: There is no adequate substitution for a personal consultation with your physician. Neither Southwest Healthcare System, or any of their affiliates, nor any contributors shall have any liability for the content or any errors or omissions in the information provided by this Web site.
 
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