Yes, total joint replacement surgery is a major operation. If this blood clot were to go to your lung you could die. Actions are taken, and medication given to prevent and reduce your risks of these complications. Most doctors recommend you donate your own blood in advance to use after your surgery. This is called autologous blood donation.
Some patients are unable to give their own blood.
If so, a family member or friend wit the same blood type can donate for you. This is called directed donation. Of course, there is always blood available in the blood bank. There are also some new medications which will allow you to boost your blood count without donating blood. These tests are completed to assure your body is ready for surgery.