Analysis of waiting times on Irish renal transplant list

A number of recipient variables have been identified which influence waiting list times for a renal allograft. The aim of this study was to evaluate these factors in the Irish population.

We examined patients accepted onto the transplant list from January 1, 2000 until December 31, 2005. Inclusion criteria were adults listed for kidney only, deceased donor transplants. We included patients previously transplanted. Patients were censored, but still included in the analysis, if they died while on the list, permanently withdrew from the list or if they were not transplanted at the time of the study.

There were a total of 984 patients accepted onto the waiting list during the study period, of which 745 of these were transplanted. Factors significantly associated with longer waiting times included age above 50 yr, blood group O and high peak panel reactive antibodies level. Gender and patient body mass index were not associated with longer waiting times.

We have identified factors associated with a longer waiting time on the Irish cadaveric renal transplant list. This information can help our patients make informed decisions regarding likely waiting times and the merits of living related transplantation.