Expert Perspectives on a Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Novel Donor Storage Platforms to Cold-static...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Transplantation Medicine
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Clinical need for randomized evidence on heart preservation techniques in Canada.
• Current organ preservation methods lack comparative efficacy data.
• Novel donor storage platforms offer potential improvements.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate the feasibility and value of a randomized trial.
• Compare cold-static preservation with novel donor storage platforms.
• Assess Canadian experts' willingness to participate in such a trial.

Main Methods:

• Validated survey distributed to 30 Canadian Cardiac Transplant Network members.
• Survey included cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons.
• Addressed demographics, clinical scenarios, benefits, barriers, and participation willingness.

Main Results:

• 87% response rate from transplant experts.
• High interest in trial participation (100%) and blinding (88%).
• Willingness to randomize decreased with longer ischemic times; device cost was a major barrier (73%).

Conclusions:

• Canadian experts show interest and equipoise for a trial on organ preservation strategies.
• Device cost is a significant barrier to implementing novel platforms.
• A randomized trial could standardize protocols and strengthen evidence for heart transplantation.