A new medical technique is providing an alternative to surgeries that go against the religious beliefs of some residents.

So-called bloodless medicine and surgery is providing patients with an alternative to blood transfusions. New York Presbyterian-Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville is the only medical center in the Hudson Valley to offer it.

The technique uses what's called a cell saver device. "Blood gets directed through the machine and directly back into the patient and cuts down on the need for any blood transfusions," according to Dr. William McCauley.

Raz Saraceno, 69, of Yonkers, recently had two hip replacements, surgeries that almost didn't happen because of his religious beliefs as a Jehovah's Witness.

"I'm a constant bible reader. I read the bible every day and the bible says abstain from blood," he says.

Doctors say the procedure is safer and also reduces the risk of infections.