The Bronson Blood Conservation Service helps people who don't want donor blood. Some of the reasons people choose not to have donor blood include religious belief, concerns about the quality of the blood supply, concerns about infection and concerns about using donor blood when the supply is limited. The benefits of blood conservation can include:
- less exposure to new viruses and infections
- less risk of using old donor blood that may not be as good for you
- fewer infections after having surgery or treatment
- faster recovery
- better outcomes after surgery or treatment
Bronson gives you options that can help prevent the need for a blood transfusion. Some of the techniques used in this service include:
Harmonic scalpel: A scalpel that uses vibration to cut and seal tissue. This reduces blood loss.
Da Vinci robot: Robotic assisted surgery that uses smaller cuts and results in less blood loss.
Cell saver or blood salvage: Cleans and saves your own blood during surgery and puts it back in your body.
Volume expanders: Special fluids put into your body through a vein that increase the amount of your own blood.
Medicines: Some medicines can help make red blood cells. Other medicines help your blood so you don't bleed as much.
Blood management: Staff members are careful not to use a lot of your blood if you need to have a blood test. If you say it is OK, we could use blood in an emergency situation.
Minimally invasive surgery and radiology procedures: These minimally invasive techniques mean:
- less blood loss
- less pain and need for pain medicine
- less time in the hospital
- quicker recovery
Bronson is committed to reducing the need for donor blood. Our team is led by a medical director and full-time coordinator who are experienced in blood conservation. Our physicians and staff work together to reduce the need for patients to receive donor blood.
Bronson Blood Conservation Service
Bronson Methodist Hospital
601 John Street
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
(269) 341-8575
e-mail: bloodconservation@bronsonhg.org
