If a potential match is identified, the donor is asked to come in for more tests. If the donor proves to be compatible, he or she is asked to sign an intent to donate and the transplant process begins. Typically, the donation procedure itself lasts between 45 to 90 minutes. In virtually every case, marrow is removed from the back of the hips. Anesthesia is used to help with any pain, but the incisions are so small stitches aren't even necessary.
Donors can expect to feel some soreness in their lower back for a few days.
Forty percent of platelet recipients are under age 20. Like whole blood, marrow, tissue, and organs, platelets give the gift of life. A platelet donation generally takes about two hours. Platelet donors are always needed because donated platelets must be transfused within five days, before the platelets lose their ability to clot the patient's blood. Platelet don't travel well, so it's important to have a good local supply.