Autologous Blood Donations
What Is Autologous Blood Donation?
Autologous blood donation (also called pre‑deposit autologous transfusion) is when you donate your own blood before a scheduled surgery, so it can be available if you need a transfusion during or after your procedure.
This blood is stored just for you and used only during your surgery at UR Medicine. Unused units will be discarded after you are discharged. However, your donated blood may not meet all of your needs—community blood supply may still be needed.
Autologous blood donation can help with:
- Lower risk of reactions. Your body recognizes your own blood, reducing the chance of immune or allergic reactions.
- Prevention of disease transmission. There is no risk of infectious diseases from another donor.
- Peace of mind. Especially if you prefer to avoid donor blood or are part of vulnerable populations (e.g., those with rare blood types).
Who Should Consider It?
Autologous donation is typically considered when:
- Your surgery is planned weeks in advance (not emergencies).
- You’re healthy enough to safely donate blood (ages 10+, ≥ 65 lb).
- Your doctor thinks you’ll likely need a transfusion.
UR Medicine's Approach
Your UR Medicine provider will determine if an autologous donation is appropriate for your surgery. “High‑risk” donors—such as cardiac, pregnant, pediatric, or infection‑affected patients—may require additional evaluation by the Blood Bank physician.
What To Expect
Before the Donation
Leading up to the donation, you will eat and drink normally. Your provider may suggest taking an iron supplement, as iron promotes healthy red blood cell production.
To schedule donations, call the Blood Bank at (585) 275-9662 after your provider has prescribed the donation. All donations will need to be completed more than three days before surgery. There must be at least three days between donations.
Plan transportation for the day of the donation, as someone should drive you to and from the appointments.
At the Donation
Each donation appointment will last around one hour. Your lab technician will do a hemoglobin blood drop test and read vital signs. They will also review your medical history and discuss current medications.
The technician will use a sterile needle to collect approximately 1 pint of blood. This will take 7-10 minutes. After the donation, you will rest at the Donor Room and receive light refreshments.
On Surgery Day
Your blood is securely stored by UR Medicine labs. If needed during surgery, your unit of blood will be used. Any unused blood is discarded after you are discharged. If you need more blood products other than your personal donation—like plasma or platelets—they come from the screened community supply.
What Sets Us Apart?
At UR Medicine, our experts offer precise and comprehensive care. Our Donor Program staff work closely with your surgical team for smooth coordination before and after surgery.
Our labs are directed by nationally and internationally recognized certified pathologists and clinical scientists in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine.
The UR Medicine Blood Bank adheres to shared national safety standards.