Their webpage lead me to Transplant Living: Living Donation. The Qualifactions page was brief.
The University of Maryland had a better list, and I can only assume it's similar to what UVA and UNOS will be doing.In order to qualify as a living donor, an individual must be physically fit, in good general health, and free from high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, kidney disease and heart disease. Individuals considered for living donation are usually between 18-60 years of age. Gender and race are not factors in determining a successful match, but donors must have a blood type compatible with the intended recipient.
Routine tests are also always performed to determine the potential donor's level of physical and mental health, and compatibility with the patient awaiting a transplant.
Transplant centers must also implement a written living donor informed consent process that informs the prospective living donor of all aspects of and potential outcomes from living donation.
Step 1: Questionnaire and Blood Testing
Questionnaire
* The donor will complete an initial questionnaire that includes a series of questions regarding overall health status. Donors should not have uncontrolled high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, liver disease or kidney disease.
Blood Testing
* The donor will be tested for blood type compatibility.
(A nurse coordinator will call to inform the donor of their results and will speak with them about their interest in further testing.)
Step 2: Further Testing
Tests and Assessments
* Initial consult will be with a transplant surgeon. The surgeon will explain the surgery, risks and potential complications, do a physical examination and provide ample time for questions and discussion.
* The donor will complete an EKG, chest X-ray, bloodwork, and abdominal CAT Scan and CT Cholangiogram. A blood pressure check, medical history and physical examination will be completed by a transplant surgeon.
* A psychosocial assessment by our transplant psychiatrist will be completed.
* Evaluation by a hepatologist (medical liver specialist) will be completed on the donor.
* The donors will also meet with a financial coordinator to learn about the billing procedures for donation. Typically, the transplant center and the recipient's insurance will cover the cost of the evaluation and surgery.
Additional Tests
* Other tests may also be required depending on the donor's gender, age, and genetic make-up. These may include: Pap smear, mammogram, PSA, exercise stress test, pulmonary function test, and possibly a liver biopsy. If the donor is a smoker, they will be instructed to stop smoking.
Multidisciplinary Discussion
* Once all of the tests are completed and the donor has been accepted, the surgery date will be established.
