The Blood Bank
Fracture
Donor eligibility
Deferral period for blood donation after a bone fracture ranges from 1 week - 4 months. It depends on the type of fracture and if surgery was needed. Wounds need to be healed, no need for wound dressing / cast and no signs of infection. Donor is fully recovered.
Donors can be considered to be fully recovered if they:
are well.
have regained mobility.
are back to activities of daily living (e.g. housework, employment, driving).
Check medication, see list of medication.
See Please note:
Exceptions and comments
Please note:
Minor fracture: For example: Toe- or finger, fractured ribs, uncomplicated wrist fracture / bone crack where no surgery is needed. Can donate blood 1 week after fully recovered.
Major fracture: For example: Fracture in femur, hip, ankle, arm, clavicle. Multiple fractures with or without surgery, open fracture: Can donate blood 4 months after fracture occurred or 4 months after surgery.
If screws, plates, wires and / or rods are inserted: Can donate blood 4 months after surgery, since it can take time before symptoms of infection appear.
Removal of screws, plates, wires and / or rods: Can donate blood when stitches have been removed, wounds have healed and no signs of infection.
Further information:
An unhealed wound or sore is a risk for bacteria entering the blood. Bacteria can be a serious threat to anybody receiving blood or blood components. This is because bacteria can multiply to dangerous levels after collection.
A plaster-cast can hide a wound or sore.
Valid from: 16. April 2026