The number of organ donations following circulatory death (DCD) continues to grow in the United States and worldwide. However, DCD organs are yet to be accepted universally as a viable option to serve patients on the organ transplant waiting list.
Baylor Scott & White Annette C. and Harold C. Simmons Transplant Institute was a commanding presence at the American Transplant Congress’ 2021 Virtual Connect conference. Held June 4 through 9, the live broadcast sessions brought together almost 4,000 transplantation professionals from 54 countries.
Patients with chronic pancreatitis often experience intractable pain. Patients make frequent trips to the emergency department and may have numerous hospital admissions. They also can experience significant lifestyle disruptions and a greatly diminished quality of life.
Like all transplant recipients, patients who have received a liver transplant have complex and unique medical needs. Physicians who are following these patients must be proactive about preventive care, recognize potential complications and manage any post-transplant conditions that develop.
In March, the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) launched a new policy for matching kidney transplant candidates with organs from deceased donors. Donated kidneys are now offered first to candidates listed at transplant hospitals within 250 nautical miles of the donor hospital. A kidney that is not accepted for any of these candidates will then be offered to candidates beyond the 250 nautical mile distance.
