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If I need a blood transfusion for my joint replacement can I give my own blood?

Because joint replacement is an elective surgery, you are able to give some of your own blood beforehand. This is known as autologous blood donation and is usually organized through your local blood service. Your surgeon can discuss this option with you.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is joint replacement?

Joint replacement is the surgical removal of a joint and replacement of it with an artificial (prosthetic) one. The technical term for joint replacement is arthroplasty. It can be performed on many different joints, the most common being the hips and knees.

What is arthroplasty?

Arthroplasty is the technical term for joint replacement, which is when a joint is surgically removed and replaced with an artificial (prosthetic) one.

What are the different types of joint replacement?

The most common types of joint replacement are of the hips and knees. But other joints, such as the shoulders, hand joints and ankles can also be replaced.

What are the risk factors for joint replacement?

The risk factors for joint replacement vary according to the type of joint. Arthritis is a common cause of damage requiring joint replacement. Obesity can also put stress on the hip and knee joints, causing damage which in the long term may …

What are the complications of joint replacement?

Complications of joint replacement include stiffness and swelling, blood clots, joint dislocation after surgery and the need for more surgery in the future due to the artificial joint wearing down. Rare complications of surgery include …

How long does joint replacement surgery take?

Joint replacement often takes a couple of hours, but this time can vary depending on the type of joint replacement you are having and how difficult the procedure is, i.e., whether you are having a total joint replacement or are only having a …

What will happen if I delay joint replacement surgery?

It is usually better not to delay joint replacement. The longer you remain immobile, the more difficult rehabilitation will be after your operation.

Will I need a blood transfusion during joint replacement surgery?

A small number of people need a blood transfusion after their operation, depending on the length and difficulty of the surgery.

How long will it take me to recover from joint replacement surgery?

Recovery time from joint replacement surgery varies according to the individual, as well as the length of the procedure and whether a joint is entirely replaced, or only parts of it are replaced or fixed.

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About this article

Author: Jonathan Meddings BMedLabSc (Hons)
First answered: 17 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Votes: 819 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Tennis elbow

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