The Spanish Model of Organ Donation and Transplantation

Abstract

Solid organ transplantation saves the lives or improves the quality of life of about 100,000 patients worldwide every year. The consolidation of transplantation therapies derives from the excellent results achieved by the transplantation of virtually all types of organs, something which was made possible in a relatively short period of time, seeing as the first successful kidney transplant between humans was carried out back in 1954. Organ transplantation is different from other medical services because its practice does not rely solely on technical development or professional expertise. The success of transplantation also depends on the availability of an organ from a willing and suitable living or deceased donor. A shortage of organs is a universal obstacle that precludes the full expansion of transplantation therapies, determining the death and clinical deterioration of patients on the waiting list for an organ transplant. In addition to and as a result of the unequal distribution of wealth in the world, organ shortage is also the root cause for unethical practices such as organ trafficking and transplant tourism, practices that violate fundamental human rights, like those of human dignity and integrity, and erode the image of the donation and transplantation systems, perpetuating shortage.