Cadaver and Living Organ Donor

What is the organ transplant process?

Blood and tissue testing will be done on the donor as well as the patient to determine compatibility. This reduces the chances of the organ being rejected by the receiving patient’s body. Once a match occurs, the transplant team works to coordinate operating rooms (two needed if using a living donor) as well as arrival times. 

After an organ has initially been removed, it has a life of anywhere from 6 – 36 hours. It is crucial that the transplant recipient arrive at the hospital quickly to receive the organ while it is still viable.

During the transplant process, the donor and the family of the donor will remain anonymous (unless you are using a donor who you know). It is up to the donor and their family to determine if they would like to meet the recipient and their family.

It’s important to note, if you are placed on a waitlist, you are not 100% guaranteed to receive in organ in time due to high demand and low supply. If you know of someone that is interested in becoming a living organ donor, please have then contact the transplant center for more information.  They will educate the donor and perform tests to help determine if they could be a match.

What are the risks of organ transplantation?

While there are many benefits to being an organ donor, there are also risks to take into consideration. Since this is a major surgery, there is a risk of bleeding or infection for both the donor and the recipient. The recipient is at risk for organ rejection, but this is low and manageable. 

For the donor, aside from the possibility of bleeding and infection, their risks are typically more related to the mentality of the situation. Because there is a chance for organ rejection from the recipient, this could be a weight on the donor’s shoulders as they may start to regret their decision since it did not help. Becoming a donor also means taking time off work for surgery and recovery which can become a financial burden. Additionally, insurance could be a headache for the donor.

How can I become an organ donor?

If you are interested in becoming an organ donor in the state of Iowa, contact the Iowa Donor Network.