Organ donation

INTRODUCTION Transplantation of organs and tissues became a recognised therapeutic intervention during the 20th century. The first cornea transplant took place in 1905, followed by the first kidney in 1954, liver in 1963 and heart in 1967. Over the years transplantation has become easier and safer and it is now possible to transplant kidneys, heart and the heart valves, lungs, pancreas, liver and small bowel, corneas, bone, tendons and skin. All forms of transplants are carried out in the UK and the outcomes for patients in terms of their own survival and that of the transplant are amongst the best in the world. Transplantation is now recognised as the treatment of choice for people with organ failure and an increasing number of people could have their lives saved or improved by a transplant. Indeed for end stage liver, heart and lung failure there is no alternative to transplantation. Those in renal failure can be maintained on dialysis but their life expectancy is better if they are transplanted. The demand for organs is high and is likely to increase in the foreseeable future as kidney and liver disease becomes more prevalent in the population and until biological and technological solutions become feasible.