When scheduling non-emergency surgery or medical procedures that may require a blood transfusion, many patients elect to have blood drawn before the procedure in order to be transfused with their own blood.  This is called Autologous Donation ('Auto' meaning self ).  Almost any blood product, from whole blood to peripheral stem cells, can be ordered for autologous donation.

Because the patient is receiving his own blood, there is almost no risk of adverse reaction or infectious disease; and because the blood is held in reserve for the patient, their blood is available when needed.  This type of donation helps to conserve our community blood supply for both emergencies and for those who cannot donate for themselves.

An Autologous donation requires a physician's prescription.  This may be faxed to Stewart Blood Center or you may bring your prescription to one of our donor centers. An appointment is required and your donation must occur at least 72 hours before your scheduled medical procedure.

When the Autologous blood unit is collected, it is carefully labeled to identify it as an Autologous unit belonging to that specific patient.  The unit is tracked through the processing, testing and delivery cycle to make sure it is available for the patient.  The patient's unit is reserved for his/her own use and will not be transfused to another patient.   If the patient does not use the blood during the medical procedure, it will be discarded.

To schedule an Autologous donation call the Special Donations department at (903) 535-5400.