Cadaver kidney retrieval for transplantation in Canterbury and Westland: 1972-1987

In Canterbury and Westland, 106 cadaver kidney donors have provided 186 kidneys, which have been transplanted or submitted for transplantation. The overall rate of 16 donor/million population/year, since 1973, is high by international standards [1,2]. Male donors (68%) had a median age of 20 years, and females a median age of 24 years. Motor vehicle accidents were responsible for 58% of deaths, followed by subarachnoid haemorrhage (15%). Cadaver nephrectomy was performed outside normal working hours in 58% of cases. Overall, 10% of kidneys removed were discarded, but none have been discarded since September 1980. Anatomical anomalies were common (42%).