Tissue donation FAQ

Eyes

Donating corneas can enable people to see again. The cornea, the clear tissue at the front of the eye, can be transplanted to restore the sight of patients who have lost their vision due to damage caused by disease or injury, or defects from birth.

Most people can donate their corneas, age or poor eyesight does not necessarily stop people from donating.

Heart valves

These can help to save the lives of children born with heart defects and adults with damaged heart valves.

Skin

Donated skin can be used as a natural dressing, helping to treat people with serious burns to stop infection and survive their injuries, as well as helping to reduce scarring and pain.

Bone

Donated bone is important for people receiving artificial joint replacements, or replacing bone that has been removed due to illness or injury.

Tendons

Donated tendons can help repair or replace damaged tendons or ligaments.

Yes. Only tissues you have given permission for will be donated.

Almost anyone can be considered as a tissue donor. There are some rare exemptions.

To ensure that all donated tissues are safe, the donor's medical and lifestyle history is assessed, similar to blood donors, to protect the person receiving the tissue from infection.

Tissue is normally donated within 24 hours after a patient has died. However, sometimes it is possible to donate up to 48 hours after death.

Throughout the donation the donor is treated with respect and dignity. You may see your relative after they have donated before they are laid to rest, if you wish.

No. Donation will not delay any funeral arrangements.

Yes, with permission, an NHS Blood and Transplant team member will write a thank you letter which will detail how you can access further information if you would like to receive it.