Attitude towards related living donation among candidates on the liver transplant waiting list

Abstract

To analyze attitude of patients on the liver transplant waiting list toward living donation (LD). Patients on the transplant waiting list -2003-2005 (n = 164)- were selected. Attitude was evaluated using a validated questionnaire, completed by an independent healthcare professional. The questionnaire completion rate was 97% (n = 159). A total of 87% (n = 138) of patients stated that they would donate an organ while alive if a family member needed one. However, only 39% (n = 61) would be prepared to receive a liver donation from a living relative and 50% would prefer to wait on the list (n = 80). 90% accepted that living liver donation involves a certain amount of risk. This assumption was not associated with a willingness to accept related LD (p = 0.170). A willingness to accept LD was related to patient's knowledge of his or her family's attitude toward donating an organ to the patient (p = 0.027). Patients had a favorable attitude toward living liv-er donation. When there was a family base that is in favor of LD then this encouraged acceptance, and therefore, it is essential to carry out family screening of patients to detect those cases in which this type of LD can be successfully requested.