The terms predeposit autologous donation (PAD) refers to the collection and subsequent storage of blood where the person from whom the blood is collected is intended also to be the recipient, the whole process being planned for the clinical benefit of that person by covering an expected loss of a significant amount of blood resulting from, for example, elective surgery.

This guideline indicates that PAD is not without risk, and that they are of low clinical efficacy and are poorly cost-effective for the vast majority of patients in the UK. These guidelines do not recommend the practice and use of PAD unless the clinical circumstances are exceptional.

Declaration of Interests

The BSH paid the expenses incurred during the writing of this guidance. None of the authors had conflicts of interest to declare. All authors have made a declaration of interests to the BSH and Task Force Chairs which may be viewed on request.