Be Your Own Donor

Patients undergoing elective surgery may wish to donate one or more units of their own (autologous) blood prior to the anticipated date of surgery.

What is autotransfusion?
Auto transfusion is the process by which patients become their own blood donors.

How do I donate my own blood?
A doctor's order is required to donate your own blood. Your doctor will indicate how many autologous units should be donated. The blood should be donated at least three days prior to surgery.

Depending on the blood/blood product(s) requested by the physician, different blood/blood components have different expiration dates based on their viability. Whole blood and red cells can be stored for longer, but products such as platelets have a much shorter shelf life. Therefore, if you are interested in donating your own blood product, be sure to notify us well in advance to your surgery date.

The order form can be faxed or emailed to the physician's office or picked up at the Blood Donor Center. Please call 713.441.3415 for more information.

Why should I donate my own blood?
Receiving your own blood is the safest means for a patient and reduces the risk of transfusion- transmitted diseases.

Are there any risks involved in donating my own blood?
If you have certain conditions such as cardiac or cerebrovascular disease, there are increased risks involved in donating your own blood. Your doctor can determine if you qualify. Blood testing has dramatically improved blood safety, reducing the risk of transmission of infectious diseases.

How can I give blood for someone else?
If you wish to direct your donation to a specific patient, such as a family member, the patient and their physician will need to complete an order form designed for this purpose. The patient must authorize donation by completing a Designated Donor Request.

The form may be faxed or emailed to the physician's office or can be picked up at the Blood Donor Center. Please call 713.441.3415 for more information.

Depending on the type of blood product(s) requested by the patient's physician, most collections must occur at least 72 hours prior to the transfusion date to allot adequate time for product testing and processing. Charges do apply; a fee will be charged to the patient's account. If the blood product is transfused to the patient, an additional fee will be charged to the patient's account.