Autologous Blood Donations Program

This briefing note begins by examining the nature of autologous blood donation (ABD) programs and the risks associated with allogeneic transfusions, which this specific blood-transfusion method is designed to reduce. Then, based on the state of current scientific evidence, the study describes the clinical value of ABD programs by identifying their advantages and drawbacks. Examination of different clinical guidelines developed in various countries provides specific details regarding the main surgical indications for autologous blood donation. This briefing note also summarizes the different studies that have addressed the cost issue and, more rarely, the cost-effectiveness of this transfusion method.