Whole body donation 101: How do I donate my body to science?

 

When considering organ and tissue donation, it is important to realize that whole body donation is also an option to save and improve the lives of others. Primarily used to study diseases and ailments, tissues from donated bodies also further medical science research and training, providing to doctors an alternative to learning from artificial substitutes and textbooks.

While many medical universities will not accept body donations from those who have already donated organs and tissue for transplantation (with the exception of transplanted cornea), there are other organizations specializing in whole body procurement that allow and encourage transplant donation. Researching the available options and making the necessary arrangements now will make decisions easier for family members during their time of grief.

To make arrangements to donate your body to science:

1. Research the options to determine whether you would rather have your body go to a medical university or a tissue bank. Keep in mind that medical universities have a limited number of spaces and may not have a need for your donation at the time of your death, so alternate plans must also be made.
2. Determine the costs that would be associated with each option. Sometimes there is a charge for the body to be picked-up and transported to the medical school. Some medical universities only allow a certain amount for travel funds, so a university that is close by is the best option. Often tissue banks, such as Science Care, pay for transportation, as well as for cremation and the return of cremated remains, and filing of death certificates and other necessary authorizations.
3. Once you have chosen where to donate your body, request a registration packet. Sign and return any necessary consent forms stating your commitment to donate your body to that particular organization. Include a copy of the consent form with your will.  Most organizations also provide a wallet card indicating your intention to donate at the time of death.
4. Discuss your decision with family members. For most tissue banks, if you have completed all registration prior to death, no addition consent is needed by next of kin in order to donate. However, some medical universities will not accept your donation against the wishes of your next of kin. Family members also should be made aware of your wishes, as a traditional funeral will not be possible. In addition, your next of kin will need to know who to notify once you have died. In most cases, all that is needed is a call to your chosen organization. No funeral home in the interim is necessary.
5. Inform your doctors of your decision. These medical professionals will need to note this information in your chart, so they will know who to notify once you have died.

Exclusions for whole body donation include:

1. HIV/AIDS
2. Hepatitis B & C
3. Active tuberculosis or syphilis
4. Severe obesity
5. Decomposition
6. Trauma
7. Extensive orthopedic surgeries

For more info: Body Donation Programs in the United States, Science Care, Anatomy Gifts Registry,

 *photo - Wikimedia Commons - author: Every1blowz

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