Frozen Blood Reserve Service

Frozen red cells are an excellent resource for patients with extremely rare blood types. They are the preferred component for patients sensitized to immunoglobulin A (IgA). They may also be indicated for patients sensitized to leukocyte and platelet antigen. New York Blood Center's frozen reserves, one of the largest repositories in the U.S., are also available to help provide autologous blood for patients who have had surgery postponed and for patients with potential need for transfusion beyond the maximum storage time available for liquid blood.

NYBC maintains frozen reserves under FDA standards. Blood can be frozen and stored up to ten years, but must be transfused within 24 hours of thawing. Autologous blood units are kept frozen for up to six months unless the blood is very rare. Autologous units can be shipped anywhere in the United States, subject to prevailing regulations.