Donor and transplant candidate selection for solid organ transplantation during the COVID-19 pandemic

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has significantly impacted medical practices, including organ transplantation.
• Ensuring donor and recipient safety is paramount to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission during transplantation.
• A lack of standardized protocols for evaluating potential SARS-CoV-2 infection in donors and recipients poses a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a protocol for selecting organ donors and recipients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To facilitate the continuation of lifesaving solid organ transplantation (heart, lung, liver, kidney).
• To encourage dialogue and share initial findings for improving transplant safety with limited resources.

Main Methods:

• Development of a protocol based on existing guidelines and clinical experience.
• Application of the protocol for donor and recipient selection in solid organ transplantation.
• Presentation of initial results to inform ongoing practice.

Main Results:

• Implementation of a protocol to manage organ transplantation during the pandemic.
• Initial data suggests feasibility of the protocol in selecting uninfected donors and recipients.
• The protocol aims to minimize risks associated with SARS-CoV-2 in transplant candidates.

Conclusions:

• The proposed protocol offers a framework for safe solid organ transplantation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Continuous evaluation and adaptation of the protocol are necessary as understanding of SARS-CoV-2 evolves.
• This approach supports the continuation of vital organ transplant services while prioritizing safety.