Palliative care involvement in solid organ transplant: a narrative review

Area of Science:

• Transplant medicine
• Palliative care
• Healthcare outcomes

Background:

• Solid organ transplantation has increased due to advances in surgical procedures, outcomes, and immunosuppressive therapies.
• Multidisciplinary evaluation is crucial for transplant candidates, recognizing the emotional and physical burdens they face.
• Palliative care involvement pre- and post-transplant is recognized as a valuable support for patients undergoing transplantation for end-stage diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize existing literature on palliative care's role in solid organ transplantation.
• To provide a conversation guide for supporting transplant patients through a palliative care lens.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of English-language articles was conducted.
• Searches were performed in the PubMed database from January 1, 2015, to April 2, 2026.
• Keywords included "palliative care," "transplantation," "solid organ transplant," and specific transplant types, alongside related terms.

Main Results:

• Palliative care's role in transplantation is well-studied, with formal guidelines updated for heart and liver transplant groups.
• Palliative care providers are encouraged to collaborate with transplant teams to support patients and caregivers.
• Continued partnership is essential for managing end-stage disease throughout the transplant journey.

Conclusions:

• Further investigation into healthcare outcomes associated with palliative care in transplant populations is warranted.
• Optimal timing, setting, and resource allocation for palliative care teams in transplantation require additional research.