Autotransfusion is a procedure in which the donor and recipient are one and the same person, meaning that the patient is his/her own donor. Preoperative autotransfusion is used when an operation is scheduled that will most likely require blood (e.g. in orthopaedic procedures where hip and knee prostheses are implanted).
Hence, whole blood is collected from a patient few days before the operation, which the patient later receives during the operation.
Prior to the procedure, blood is collected from the patient, stored and, after the procedure, returned to the same patient. One’s own blood (“autologous”) is still the safest blood in terms of pathogens transmission and immune side effects. Therefore, all those expecting to undergo a surgical procedure in which a major loss of blood is expected or, rather, its substitution are recommended to consult with their doctor about the possibility of autologous transfusion prior to the scheduled surgical procedure. The time and quantity of the blood collected is determined by the treating physician and transfusion medicine expert.
You can make an appointment for blood donation on working days between 8 and 9 a.m. at the telephone number 01/54 38 327, where you will receive additional instructions and explanations.
Blood is collected on Tuesdays and Wednesdays between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m.
You are kindly asked to enclose any test results or findings to the referral note.
Before blood is drawn, patients MUST eat a non-fat meal, such as a slice of bread with jam, tea, juice or coffee, and take their regular medications. DO NOT attend a blood drive ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.
