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A: You may need a small amount of blood after surgery. You are more likely to need a transfusion if you have a hip or both knees replaced at the same time.
Your doctor will tell you if you should donate blood for your own later use; if so, you can donate once a week—usually 2–4 weeks before your surgery.
You may be prescribed iron supplements if you are making frequent donations; again, ask your doctor. You, or a relative or friend with a compatible blood type, may donate blood through the hospital's blood bank.
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