Tissue donation
Tissue donation is a medical process where specific tissues are removed from the body of a deceased donor and transplanted into someone else in order to improve the quality of life of the recipient’s. It is a profoundly generous act on the part of an individual or family, which can transform the lives of people on the transplant waiting list.
In Western Australia, the tissues that can be donated are:
- Cornea (the clear film on the front of the eye)
- Bones
- Heart Valves
Anyone has the potential to be a tissue donor
Most people have the potential to be a tissue donor - you shouldn't assume that you aren't healthy enough or that you are too old or too young. Certain factors are considered when determining if a person is an appropriate tissue donor, which include:
- the circumstances of how, where and when a person dies
- any past medical history
- age is considered
Tissue donation can take place after circulatory death has occurred, which is when the heart has stopped beating. Unlike organs, tissue remains suitable for donation for up to 24 hours after death and can be stored prior to transplantation. Eye tissue can be stored for up to seven days while heart valves, bone and skin may be stored for several years.
Donation of tissue does not alter the physical shape of the body. Following tissue donation, prosthetic implants are used to restore/maintain a person’s appearance. There are no costs relating to the donation of tissues. Funeral and burial arrangements remain the responsibility of the family and can proceed as normal with viewing and open casket funerals as planned.
DonateWest deals with donation of organs and tissues after death, for the sole purpose of transplantation to save or enhance someone’s life.
If you would like more information about:
- Donating blood, bone marrow or cord blood, contact the Australian Red Cross Blood Service on 13 14 95