Brain Donation Process

Guide to the Brain Donation Process

Thank you for considering brain donation in the noble spirit of sharing. After death, a brain autopsy is performed first for an accurate diagnosis, and the tissue remaining after the autopsy diagnosis is appropriately preserved for future research.

If the bereaved family wishes to donate only the brain, donation may be limited to the brain alone. However, organs related to the disease may also be removed, which may require a full-body autopsy; this is carried out in accordance with the family's wishes.

Before Death

Notification in Critical Condition

Preparation of Required Documents

Autopsy After Death

Procedure Before Death

Two consent forms are completed to register a wish for brain donation.

Completion & Registration of Consent Forms

Consent to Participate in Brain Donation Research · Consent to Dissection, Preservation, Research, and Provision of the Body

Thorough Discussion with Family

Procedure After Death

When a prospective donor's condition becomes critical, the guardian or family should contact the Dementia Brain Bank immediately. Knowing the situation in advance enables the autopsy and brain donation to proceed promptly.

Notification in Critical Condition

02-2072-4681 / 010-7158-3090

Preparation of Required Documents

2 copies of the death report · 1 copy of the family relationship certificate · 2 copies of the resident registration abstract (full history)

Autopsy by Place of Death

Submission of Documents

By mail or e-mail · brain-bank@snuh.org

Brain Donation Form Downloads

Please download the guidance materials and consent form templates for brain donation.

Contact

Please feel free to contact us with any questions.

  • Dementia Brain Bank: 02-2072-4681 / Coordinator: 010-7158-3090
  • Director, Dementia Brain Bank: Prof. Won Jae-kyung (02-2072-4895)
  • E-mail: brain-bank@snuh.org