I have been scheduled for surgery that may require a blood transfusion. How safe is the blood supply?
This is an excellent question. The current incidence of acquiring a transmittable disease from a blood transfusion is extremely low. In the early 1980s, there were unfortunate instances where HIV virus was transmitted by blood collected from infected donors, and screening tests for HIV were not adequate. Nucleic acid testing of blood products for HIV and hepatitis C was instituted in 1999, and has virtually eliminated transmission of these viruses. You can be assured that blood products are adequately screened to provide a safe product.
Related Questions
- I am scheduled for total joint replacement surgery and may need a blood transfusion. Should I donate my own blood (autologous donation)?
- I have been scheduled for surgery that may require a blood transfusion. How safe is the blood supply?
- Are cell salvage and autologous blood transfusion safe in endonasal surgery?
