What is a blood transfusion?

Most blood collected for transfusions is separated into its components – the red blood cells, platelets and plasma. A fourth component may be produced from the plasma – cryoprecipitated AHF. Your medical situation will determine which blood component you may need.

Blood transfusion is an important medical treatment that can save lives. When blood is lost during surgery or from other kinds of trauma, fluids are given to replace the blood. These fluids are essential for the heart and circulation. However, these fluids do not contain essential platelets and proteins that are needed to carry oxygen to tissues, clot when tissues are injured, and fight infection. Only a blood transfusion provides these things.

Blood transfusion is a medical treatment to replace blood or portions of the blood lost through injury, surgery, or disease.

During a transfusion, people normally receive only the parts of blood needed to treat their conditions. Whole blood is now rarely given as a transfusion.

Blood for transfusions may come from anonymous donors, or a person could bank his or her own blood in preparation for surgery.