Following the death of a loved one, many family members wish to participate in the anatomical gift donation process by authorizing the donation of their loved one’s organs and/or tissues.  Recognizing that organ and tissue transplantation saves or improves thousands of lives each year, the Medical Examiner-Coroner’s Office is committed to accommodating these requests whenever possible.  A collaborative working relationship with the organ and tissue procurement agencies, our local law enforcement agencies and the medical community enables the Medical Examiner-Coroner’s Office to carefully evaluate each case.  Depending upon the circumstances of the death, a small percentage of cases are not eligible for donation.  Our decision to accommodate the family’s request is guided by statutes and our established policies.

When an individual is on life support and death is imminent, the organ procurement agencies will work closely with the family to provide information and assistance regarding the donation process of vital organs.  If the death has already occurred, and not more than 24 hours has elapsed, the tissue procurement agency can still harvest corneas, bone and skin tissue, and heart valves.  In Santa Clara County, anatomical gift donation without the consent of the decedent’s legal representative is not permitted.

Tissues for Donation and the Benefits: 

Corneas - Prevents blindness and restores vision.

Whole Eyes - Used in the reconstruction of the eye orbit or reconstruction of the eye surface.  This donation also assists in medical training and research into the causes and cures for blindness.

Bone - Promotes healing, restores mobility and prevents amputation.  This donation can assist research in the causes and cures of orthopedic bone defects, diseases and trauma.

Skin - Promotes healing, prevents fluid loss and helps decrease infection in burn and trauma patients.  This donation greatly aids reconstructive surgery.

Heart Valves - These are used as a replacement for a defective valve, which is especially important as the new graft valve does not calcify and there is no rejection of tissue. This procedure is especially beneficial for children with cardiac-related issues.

Saphenous Veins -  These veins restore blood circulation and can prevent limb amputations.

Soft Tissues -   Tendons and ligaments restore a person’s mobility and enhance their life.