Organ Transplantation
Organ transplantation is defined as the transfer of an organ from a deceased or living donor to a patient suffering from an incurable disease or organ failure. In organ transplantation, a damaged organ is replaced with a functioning one. Except for heart transplants, most organ transplants can be performed from living donors to living recipients.
Organs such as the kidney, liver, intestine, pancreas, and heart can be transplanted from deceased donors. Thanks to advancements in transplantation techniques, many lives are saved each year.
How is Organ Transplantation Performed?
Organ transplantation requires specialized expertise and meticulous care. These procedures are performed using advanced surgical techniques and modern medical technology. Patients who undergo successful transplants can return to their daily lives without complications. Post-operative procedures ensure that patients experience minimal disruption to their overall health and physical functions.
Who Can Be an Organ Donor?
According to the Ministry of Health regulations, organ transplantation can be performed between relatives up to the fourth degree. However, with approval from Regional Ethics Committees, organ transplants from non-relatives are also possible. Additionally, cross-donor transplants are legally permitted under specific conditions.
Which Hospitals Perform Organ Transplants?
Hospitals conducting organ transplants must provide high-level medical services. Contrary to common belief, organ transplantation is not limited to just the surgical procedure. The process involves multiple pre-transplant and post-transplant stages. Organ transplantation requires collaboration between various medical departments, making it essential for hospitals to have strong infrastructure and resources to support transplant procedures.
Important Considerations for Organ Donors
- Anyone over the age of 18 can donate their organs and tissues.
- In case of unexpected death, individuals can officially register their wish to donate organs by signing a legal document in the presence of two witnesses at health directorates, hospitals, or authorized institutions.
- Donors receive an official organ donation certificate after completing the registration process.
- It is crucial for donors to inform their families about their decision. If the donor’s relatives object, the organ donation process may be canceled regardless of official documentation.
- If the donor’s organs are deemed suitable for transplantation, the procedure is performed immediately to ensure successful outcomes.
Organ Transplantation in Turkey
Organ transplantation is performed in many healthcare institutions across Turkey, particularly in university hospitals, following national medical procedures and ethical guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common organ transplants include kidney, liver, heart, lung, pancreas, and small intestine transplants. Additionally, corneas, bone marrow, and certain tissues can also be transplanted.
Organ donors can be either living or deceased individuals. Living donors are typically suitable for kidney and liver transplants. Deceased donors (those declared brain dead) can provide organs such as the heart, lungs, liver, and others for transplantation.
The recovery process varies depending on the patient’s overall health and the transplanted organ. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks, but they must take lifelong immunosuppressive medications to prevent organ rejection. Regular medical check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are crucial for long-term success.