Author: Dr. Mathew George Kunthara, MD, DM, DRCPSC (Nephrology), ESENeph (UK), Fellowship in Renal Transplantation (Canada)
“Life is a gift. Pass it on.”
Organ donation is one of the most selfless and life-saving acts a human being can perform. With the rising incidence of organ failure, especially kidney disease, the importance of organ donation has never been greater.
Rising Burden of Kidney Disease
Studies show that between 2011 and 2017, the prevalence of kidney disease was 11.1%. However, during the period 2018 to 2023, this figure increased significantly to 16.3%. When kidney failure becomes severe, there are only two treatment options:
- Dialysis
- Kidney Transplantation
Extensive studies have proven that kidney transplantation offers better quality of life and survival outcomes compared to long-term dialysis. Through kidney transplantation, a recipient often receives a second chance at life.
Types of Organ Donation
There are two main types of organ donation:
- Living Donor Organ Donation
– When a healthy person donates an organ (usually a kidney) while alive.
- Deceased Donor Organ Donation
– Donation after brain death or circulatory (cardiac) death.
“Transplants are a one-step forward in science in the service of man, and not a few people today owe their lives to an organ transplant. Increasingly, the technique of transplants has proven to be a valid means of attaining the primary goal of all medicine – the service of human life.”
– Pope John Paul II
(International Congress on Transplants, Rome)
Brain Death and Organ Donation
Deceased organ donation occurs after brain death is declared or after the heart has stopped beating.
The declaration of brain death is a highly transparent and legally regulated process.
- In India, most deceased organ donations occur after brain death
- In many Western countries, organ donation may occur within minutes after cardiac death
Organs That Can Be Donated
A single donor can save up to eight lives by donating the following organs:
- Heart
- Two Kidneys
- Liver
- Pancreas
- Lungs
- Intestine
- Corneas
Age Limit for Organ Donation
Age limits may vary by organ:
- Kidneys & Liver: Up to 70 years
- Heart & Pancreas: Up to 50 years
- Intestine: Up to 60–65 years
- Corneas: Up to 100 years
- Heart Valves: Up to 50 years
- Bones: Up to 70 years
Notably, successful organ transplants have been performed worldwide using organs from donors aged 70–80 years and above.
Who Can Donate Organs?
Organ donation is possible regardless of age, gender, or race after death. Consent is required from:
- Close relatives (parents, spouse, children, siblings), or
- A legally authorized person as per law
Whom to Contact for Brain Death Organ Donation?
To initiate organ donation after brain death, contact:
- A Transplant Coordinator, or
- A Doctor in the ICU
How Soon Should Organs Be Transplanted?
Healthy organs must be transplanted within specific time limits:
- Heart: 4–6 hours
- Lungs: 4–8 hours
- Intestine: 6–10 hours
- Liver: 12–15 hours
- Pancreas: 12–24 hours
- Kidney: 24–48 hours
How Are Organs Allocated?
Organs donated after brain death are allocated based on:
- Medical urgency
- Blood group compatibility
- Waiting time on the transplant list
In Kerala, allocation is done through Mrithasanjeevani (K-SOTTO) for registered recipients.
What is K-SOTTO?
K-SOTTO (Kerala State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization) is a government- controlled body that ensures organ donation is conducted ethically, transparently, and legally under:
The Transplantation of Human Organs & Tissues Act, 1994
Why Should We Donate Organs?
- Around 1,50,000 patients in India currently need organ transplantation
- Thousands die every year waiting for a suitable donor
- The demand for organ donors has never been higher
Becoming an organ donor is a noble, compassionate, and life-saving decision.
How to Register for Organ Donation During Your Lifetime
You can pledge your organs online through:
After registration:
- Download and keep the donor certificate
- Inform your family members about your decision
Let Your Light Shine on Others
“Give from the heart.”
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