Multiorgan Transplant
What is an Organ Transplant?
Organ transplantation is the process of surgically transferring a donated organ to someone diagnosed with organ failure. Organ transplantation is often the only treatment for end stage organ failure.
Organ donors may be living or may have died of brain death or circulatory death. Most deceased donors are those who have been pronounced brain dead. Brain dead means the cessation of brain function, typically after receiving an injury (either traumatic or pathological) to the brain, or otherwise cutting off blood circulation to the brain.
What patients looking for a transplant should also keep in mind is that organ transplant is a major surgery that carries potential risks. The primary reason that organ transplant is risky is the chance of organ rejection. It is essential that you gather all the information, and consult your doctor before deciding to opt for an organ transplant.
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FAQ’s
Faq’s What is a multiple organ transplant called?
A multiple organ transplant, also called a dual or multi-organ transplant, is a complex surgery where two or more failing organs are replaced with healthy ones from a donor. This procedure aims to restore normal function and significantly enhance the patient’s quality of life.
What is the most common multiorgan transplant?
The most common multi-organ transplants include heart-kidney, heart-liver, kidney-pancreas, and heart-lung. Though less common than single-organ transplants, the field is expanding. Multi-organ transplants require specialized care and a coordinated team to manage the complex process, with approaches varying based on the type of transplant.
Who is eligible for a multiorgan transplant?
Certain medical conditions can impact multiple organs, resulting in organ failure in more than one system. In some cases, different illnesses or treatments can lead to unrelated organ failures. A common cause of multiple organ failure is a multisystem disease known as amyloidosis.
What is the most successful organ transplant?
Heart and kidney transplants are among the most successful procedures in transplantation.
How are organ donors matched for multiorgan transplants?
Organ donors are matched to recipients based on factors like blood type, organ size, geography, medical urgency, and waiting time. Blood type compatibility is crucial, with type O as the universal donor and type AB as the universal recipient. Organ size matters, especially for children, and proximity to the donor hospital is considered. Medical urgency and the recipient’s time on the waiting list also influence the match.
How do I get on the waiting list for organ transplants?
To get on the organ transplant waiting list in India, you can be referred by your doctor, contact a transplant hospital, schedule an evaluation, and get listed at multiple hospitals. The process includes health evaluations, understanding the risks and benefits, signing a consent form, and getting vaccinated to reduce post-transplant infection risk. When an organ becomes available, recipients are matched based on medical urgency, compatibility, time on the waiting list, and proximity to the donor.