Surgery Without Blood Transfusions
Bloodless medicine is an alternative to receiving blood transfusions during surgery. Many people prefer to not receive transfusions as this would go against their personal or religious beliefs. At Southwest Healthcare, our bloodless medicine program accommodates patients with these wishes.
Bloodless, or transfusion-free, means performing medical or surgical treatments without using banked (stored), allogenic blood or blood products. Blood loss often occurs during surgery. Our bloodless program works to minimize blood loss by using special blood conservation methods.
We offer bloodless medicine is several specialties including:
- Family medicine
- Gastroenterology
- General surgery
- Geriatrics
- Gynecology
- Orthopedic surgery
Find a Physician
If you need a referral to a physician at Southwest Healthcare, call our free physician referral service at 800-879-1020 or search for a doctor online.
Minimizing Blood Loss During Surgery
When blood transfusions are not being used during surgery, the amount of blood being lost has to be severely minimized. Our surgical team uses specialized surgical equipment to help prevent or minimize blood loss. These techniques and procedures may be used during surgery:
- Cauterizing surgical instruments, instead of using traditional scalpels
- Medication that increases red blood cell production and encourages clotting
- Specialized devices that filter and return the patient’s blood in a continuous circuit
- Blood-dilution therapies
- Techniques to lower blood pressure and body temperature
- Minimally invasive surgical techniques
How Do I Choose Bloodless Medicine?
If you prefer bloodless medicine, be sure to let the hospital know of your preference when you register for a procedure. Physicians, surgeons, nurses and others in the program are trained to respect the beliefs and preferences of patients. They are committed to providing the medical care you need.