Global transplantation: Lessons from organ transplantation organizations worldwide

Abstract

Although national transplant organizations share common visions and goals, the creation of a unified global organization remains impractical. Differences in ethnicity, culture, religion, and education shape local practices and infrastructure, making the establishment of a single global entity unfeasible. Even with these social disparities aside, logistical factors such as time and distance between organ procurement and transplantation sites pose significant challenges. While technological advancements have extended organ preservation times, they have yet to support the demands of transcontinental transplantations effectively. This review presents a comparative analysis of the structures, operational frameworks, policies, and legislation governing various transplant organizations around the world. Key differences pertain to the administration of these organizations, trends in organ donation, and organ allocation policies, which reflect the financial, cultural, and religious diversity across different regions. While a global transplant organization may be out of reach, agreeing on best practices for the benefit of patients is essential.

Keywords: Organ transplantation; National transplant organizations; Organ donation; Global transplantation; Transplant systems

Core Tip: Organ transplantation activities are managed by specific organizations in various countries, each with unique structures, protocols, and practices. These include differences in listing criteria, prioritization on waiting lists, donor preferences (living vs deceased), and organ distribution frameworks. This review explores these variations, particularly focusing on kidney and liver transplants, and highlights the lessons learned from this diverse organizational landscape that can promote future improvements.