Legal Definitions - anatomical gift

An anatomical gift is a voluntary donation of a person's body or specific body parts, made either during their lifetime or by their legal representative after their death. These gifts are intended for purposes such as transplantation, therapy, medical research, or education.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of an anatomical gift:

• Example 1: Organ Donor Registration
  Sarah decides to become an organ donor and indicates this choice on her driver's license. After a tragic accident, medical professionals determine that her organs are suitable for donation. Because she made an anatomical gift during her lifetime, her heart, lungs, and kidneys are transplanted into patients awaiting life-saving organs.

  This example illustrates an anatomical gift made by an individual during their lifetime, specifically for the purpose of organ transplantation to save or improve the lives of others.

• Example 2: Whole Body Donation for Medical Education
  Mr. Henderson, a retired science teacher, arranges with a local university medical school to donate his entire body for anatomical study upon his passing. He completes all necessary paperwork well in advance, expressing his desire to contribute to the training of future doctors.

  This demonstrates an anatomical gift of a whole body, designated for medical education and research, reflecting a conscious decision made by the donor prior to their death.

• Example 3: Tissue Donation by Family Consent
  Following the unexpected death of their adult daughter, Maria's parents are approached by a hospital representative about tissue donation. After careful consideration, they provide consent for the donation of Maria's corneas and bone tissue. These tissues are then used to restore sight to two individuals and to assist in reconstructive surgery for another patient.

  This scenario shows an anatomical gift made by a legal representative (Maria's parents) after the individual's death, specifically involving the donation of tissues for therapeutic purposes like transplantation and reconstructive procedures.