http://www.yorkshiretoday.co.uk/View...icleID=1127691
Blood devices donated to NHS
Mike Waites
Health Correspondent
A LIFE-saving alternative to blood transfusions is being offered at hospitals in Leeds.
Two devices have been installed at Leeds General Infirmary and St James's Hospital in the city which recycle blood lost during surgery.
The cell salvage machines have been donated by Jehovah's Witnesses who cannot accept any form of medical treatment involving blood products.
But they will be available to anyone undergoing major surgery as well as those who refuse blood products.
Consultant haematologist Derek Norfolk said: "Doctors and nurses are increasingly concerned to avoid unnecessary blood transfusions and red cell salvage during operations can make a significant contribution to better blood transfusion.
"This new technology can be of real benefit to patients needing major operations and will also help us to respect beliefs of patients such as Jehoavah's Witnesses who prefer to avoid all blood transfusions."
The machines, which cost £5,000, have been donated by the West and South Yorkshire Blood Conservation Group of Jehovah's Witnesses.
Medical staff in Leeds have an international reputation for pioneering work to minimise blood loss, and have even carried out organ transplants using bloodless surgery.
Health chiefs are looking more and more at measures to conserve blood stocks due to concerns over dwindling numbers of blood donors as well as the risks of infection from blood products.
mike.waites@ypn.co.uk
26 August 2005
You are currently accessing this Site as a guest. Please login or register by clicking Here
Linear Mode
