Deceased Donation and Liver Transplantation
摘要
Liver transplantation relies heavily on the successful development of the complex process of deceased donation. This process begins with the identification of a possible organ donor, most often a patient with a devastating brain injury. Such cases should be systematically referred by the treating team to a Donor Coordinator or the staff of the relevant organ procurement organization. The principle underlying systematic referral is that organ donation should be routinely considered as an integral part of end-of-life care, ensuring that donation opportunities align with the patient’s wishes and values. The most effective donation systems are built around networks of in-house Donor Coordinators. These professionals, with diverse backgrounds, varying levels of dedication, and different degrees of integration within the hospital structure, are pivotal in orchestrating and executing the multiple pathways of deceased donation. Donor Coordinators are widely recognized as key figures in facilitating the deceased donation process, overseeing all phases from donor identification and evaluation to logistical coordination and family engagement. Their expertise and leadership ensure that the opportunities for donation are maximized, and the quality and safety of organs for transplantation are upheld. This chapter provides an overview of the key elements in the deceased donation process, highlighting strategies to enhance the availability of livers for transplantation. Special attention is given to the critical role of Donor Coordinators, whose efforts are central to the success of liver transplantation programs.