Doctors are calling for wider use of kidneys from babies who die during or soon after birth in transplantation. While such transplants are performed in some countries, including the UK and the US, they are relatively rare occurrences. At the European Society for Organ Transplantation Congress, experts highlighted the need to recognize the potential of these kidneys to save lives.
One of the reasons these kidneys are overlooked is because it can be challenging to approach bereaved parents about organ donation. However, newborn babies’ kidneys can grow quickly when transplanted into a child or adult. A pair of kidneys from a newborn baby can eventually perform the function of one adult kidney within three months. Nonetheless, concerns remain about the success rate of neonatal kidney transplants, with studies indicating lower long-term success rates compared to adult donor kidneys.
Currently, there is a shortage of donor organs for transplantation, particularly for patients with kidney failure. Organ donation is only possible in a limited number of cases, such as after severe physical injury or a sudden stroke leading to unsurvivable conditions. Babies who die from oxygen deprivation during childbirth or have severe congenital conditions that are fatal shortly after birth could potentially fall under this category, making their kidneys suitable for donation.
Hospitals often hesitate to approach parents in these difficult circumstances to ask about organ donation due to the emotional distress it may cause. However, some hospitals in the UK do consider asking parents for permission in such cases, although it remains a rare occurrence. While neonatal kidneys may be more susceptible to blood clots soon after transplantation, they tend to perform well in the long term due to the excellent condition of the baby’s organs.
Efforts are being made to raise awareness and work closely with neonatal units to offer the opportunity for organ donation whenever suitable situations arise. However, wider adoption of neonatal kidney transplantation could help address the growing demand for donor organs and provide hope to patients on waiting lists.
Insights:
This article highlights the need to consider neonatal kidney transplantation as a potential solution to the shortage of donor organs for transplantation. It sheds light on the challenges of approaching bereaved parents about organ donation and the emotional complexities involved. The success rates of neonatal kidney transplants are mentioned, raising questions about the potential risks and benefits compared to adult donor organs. Efforts to increase awareness and collaboration with neonatal units are expressed, emphasizing the importance of exploring all viable options to save lives.
