What is a Living Donation?

While most tissue is donated after death, it is possible to accept bone donations from living patients, known as a living donation.

You can put the spring back into someone’s step by donating your femoral head – the ball-shaped part of the hip joint that is removed and replaced with a prosthesis during the hip replacement surgery.

This relatively small piece of bone – normally discarded by the hospital – can be used to treat bone cancer, repair bone defects during surgery or be turned into bone products. By donating it, you can make a world of difference in the life of someone else. There is no upper age limit for femoral head donation.

Become a living donor in 5 easy steps

Step 1

Ask your surgeon about donating and say that you’d like to donate the bone removed during your surgery.

Step 2

Ask you doctor or his/her receptionist for the consent form, if you are unable to find a consent form, please contact us and we will assist you.

Step 3

Tell the ward staff when you’re admitted that you are a bone or skin donor.

Step 4

Tell the theatre staff when you’re taken to theatre for surgery that you are a bone donor.

Step 5

Our donor coordinators will answer all your questions and help you where needed.
You can call us anytime on +27 87 068 8000.

What You Need to Know About Living Donation

Who can be a donor?

Anyone from the age of 16 years, who does not have cancer or an infectious disease such as hepatitis, syphilis, or HIV/AIDS, is a potential donor.

Does donation affect the way my operation is done?

Not at all! Your surgery will be done in the same way, so there are no additional risks involved.

Will donation cost me anything?

No. There are no costs involved for you, the donor, your medical aid, or your family.

Can I change my mind about donating?

Yes. You may change your mind at any time right up to when your surgery takes place. Simply tell your surgeon that you no longer want to donate and let us know.