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Updated: May 29, 2026
09:29
Technique of Subnormothermic Ex Vivo Liver Perfusion for the Storage, Assessment, and Repair of Marginal Liver Grafts
Published on: August 13, 2014
Ethical Considerations in Living Donor Liver Transplantation
Erica Archivolti1, Giuliano Testa1
1Division of Abdominal Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
Gastroenterology Clinics of North America
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Living donor liver transplantation eases organ shortages but poses ethical dilemmas. Protecting donor autonomy and welfare is crucial, alongside addressing global concerns like transplant tourism.
Area of Science:
- Medical Ethics
- Transplantation Surgery
Background:
- Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is vital for addressing organ scarcity and reducing waitlist mortality.
- Ethical considerations are paramount in LDLT to balance donor safety with the recipient's need for an organ.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the complex ethical landscape of living donor liver transplantation.
- To identify key ethical challenges and propose frameworks for robust donor protection.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and ethical analysis of current practices in living donor liver transplantation.
- Examination of ethical principles including autonomy, informed consent, and financial neutrality.
Main Results:
- Donor autonomy, informed consent, and thorough donor evaluation are critical ethical pillars.
- Global issues like transplant tourism and organ trafficking require international attention and regulation.
- Domino liver transplantation presents unique ethical considerations necessitating stringent donor safeguards.
Conclusions:
- Strengthening donor protections is essential for the ethical practice of living donor liver transplantation.
- A comprehensive ethical framework is needed to navigate the complexities of LDLT, ensuring donor welfare and preventing exploitation.
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