Kidney and pancreas transplantation in the United States, 1999-2008: the changing face of living donation

Central Body Fat Distribution and Kidney Function after Living Kidney Donation

BACKGROUND

In most screening guidelines, high body mass index (BMI) is considered a contraindication for kidney donation. New insights suggest that central body fat distribution might provide greater power in assessing kidney risk. This study aimed to determine whether BMI and central body fat distribution measures are associated with long-term kidney function after donor nephrectomy. We hypothesized that higher BMI, waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) were associated with lower kidney function long term after donation.

METHODS

The study population consisted of living kidney donors. BMI, WC, and WHtR were measured during donor screening. The outcome postdonation kidney function was assessed using measured GFR (mGFR) (mGFR, 125 I-iothalamate infusion) at 3 months ( n =1042), 5 years ( n =556), and 10 years ( n =210) of follow-up. Primary multivariable linear regression analyses were performed with BMI and WC and secondary analyses with WHtR. Linear mixed models were performed to investigate change in postdonation eGFR.

RESULTS

The donor age was 52±11 years, and 48% were male. The mean BMI was 26.1±3.6 kg/m 2 , and WC was 91±11 cm. Higher predonation BMI was associated with lower mGFR throughout follow-up: -1.35 (95% confidence interval [CI], -1.95 to -0.80), -1.55 (95% CI, -2.50 to -0.65), and -2.35 (95% CI, -4.10 to -0.60) ml/min per m 2 per 5 kg/m 2 higher BMI at 3 months, 5, and 10 years after donation, respectively, adjusted for sex, age, and predonation GFR. For WC, differences in mGFR were -1.30 (95% CI, -1.70 to -0.90), -1.50 (95% CI, -2.20 to -0.80), and -1.70 (95% CI, -3.00 to -0.50) ml/min per m 2 per 10 cm higher WC at 3 months, 5, and 10 years after donation, respectively. In male donors, BMI and WC were significantly associated with a negative postdonation change in eGFR.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher BMI and WC were independently associated with lower GFR (long term) after living kidney donation.

Early readmissions post kidney transplantation: lessons learned

INTRODUCTION

Kidney transplantation (KT) is the gold standard treatment for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. Hospital readmissions post-transplant is a common complication and can be considered an indication of avoidable morbidity and hospital quality, and there is a significant correlation between EHR and adverse patient outcomes. This study aimed to assess the readmission rate following kidney transplants, the underlying causes, and possible ways to prevent it.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of recipients from January 2016 to December 2021 in a single center. The primary objective of this study is to find the readmission rate for kidney transplants and the variables that contribute to readmission. Post-transplant complications that were resulted in the readmission categorized into surgical complications, graft-related complications, infections, DVT, and other medical complications.

RESULTS

Four hundred seventy-four renal allograft recipients met our inclusion criteria and were included in the study. 248 (52.3%) of the allograft recipients had at least one readmission during the first 90 days after the transplantation. 89 (18.8%) allograft recipients had more than one readmission episode in the first 90 days post-transplant. The perinephric fluid collection was the most common surgical complication (52.4%), and UTI was the most common infection (50%), causing readmission in the first 90 days post-transplant. The readmission odd ratio was significantly higher in patients above 60 years old and in kidneys with KDPI ≥ 85, and in recipients with DGF.

CONCLUSION

Early hospital readmission (EHR) following a kidney transplant is a common complication. Identifying the causes not only helps the transplant centers to take further steps to prevent some incidents and help to improve the patients' morbidities and mortalities, but also it can reduce the unnecessary costs of readmissions.

Impact of having potential living donors on ethnic/racial disparities in access to kidney transplantation

Racial/ethnic disparities persist in patients' access to living donor kidney transplantation (LDKT). This study assessed the impact of having available potential living donors (PLDs) on candidates' receipt of a kidney transplant (KT) and LDKT at two KT programs. Using data from our clinical trial of waitlisted candidates (January 1, 2014-December 31, 2019), we evaluated Hispanic and Non-Hispanic White (NHW) KT candidates' number of PLDs. Multivariable logistic regression assessed the impact of PLDs on transplantation (KT vs. no KT; for KT recipients, LDKT vs. deceased donor KT). A total of 847 candidates were included, identifying as Hispanic (45.8%) or NHW (54.2%). For Site A, both Hispanic (adjusted OR = 2.26 [95% CI 1.13-4.53]) and NHW (OR = 2.42 [1.10-5.33]) candidates with PLDs completing the questionnaire were more likely to receive a KT. For Site B, candidates with PLDs were not significantly more likely to receive KT. Among KT recipients at both sites, Hispanic (Site A: OR = 21.22 [2.44-184.88]; Site B: OR = 25.54 [7.52-101.54]), and NHW (Site A: OR = 37.70 [6.59-215.67]; Site B: OR = 15.18 [5.64-40.85]) recipients with PLD(s) were significantly more likely to receive a LDKT. Our findings suggest that PLDs increased candidates' likelihood of KT receipt, particularly LDKT. Transplant programs should help candidates identify PLDs early in transplant evaluation.

Effectiveness of a culturally competent care intervention in reducing disparities in Hispanic live donor kidney transplantation: A hybrid trial

Hispanic patients receive disproportionately fewer living donor kidney transplants (LDKTs) than non-Hispanic Whites (NHWs). The Northwestern Medicine Hispanic Kidney Transplant Program (HKTP), designed to increase Hispanic LDKTs, was evaluated as a nonrandomized, implementation-effectiveness hybrid trial of patients initiating transplant evaluation at two intervention and two similar control sites. Using a mixed method, observational design, we evaluated the fidelity of the HKTP implementation at the two intervention sites. We tested the impact of the HKTP intervention by evaluating the likelihood of receiving LDKT comparing pre-intervention (January 2011-December 2016) and postintervention (January 2017-March 2020), across ethnicity and centers. The HKTP study included 2063 recipients. Intervention Site A exhibited greater implementation fidelity than intervention Site B. For Hispanic recipients at Site A, the likelihood of receiving LDKTs was significantly higher at postintervention compared with pre-intervention (odds ratio [OR] = 3.17 95% confidence interval [1.04, 9.63]), but not at the paired control Site C (OR = 1.02 [0.61, 1.71]). For Hispanic recipients at Site B, the likelihood of receiving an LDKT did not differ between pre- and postintervention (OR = 0.88 [0.40, 1.94]). The LDKT rate was significantly lower for Hispanics at paired control Site D (OR = 0.45 [0.28, 0.90]). The intervention significantly improved LDKT rates for Hispanic patients at the intervention site that implemented the intervention with greater fidelity. Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov registered (retrospectively) on September 7, 2017 (NCT03276390).

Optimal Sequencing of Deceased Donor and Live Donor Kidney Transplant Among Pediatric Patients With Kidney Failure

IMPORTANCE

In the US, live donor (LD) kidney transplant rates have decreased in pediatric recipients. Pediatric patients with kidney failure will likely need more than 1 kidney transplant during their lifetime, but the optimal sequence of transplant (ie, deceased donor [DD] followed by LD or vice versa) is not known.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether pediatric recipients should first receive a DD allograft followed by an LD allograft (DD-LD sequence) or an LD allograft followed by a DD allograft (LD-DD sequence).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This decision analytical model examined US pediatric patients with kidney failure included in the US Renal Data System 2019 Report who were waiting for a kidney transplant, received a transplant, or experienced graft failure.

INTERVENTIONS

Kidney transplant sequences of LD-DD vs DD-LD.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Difference in projected life-years between the 2 sequence options.

RESULTS

Among patients included in the analysis, the LD-DD sequence provided more net life-years in those 5 years of age (1.82 [95% CI, 0.87-2.77]) and 20 years of age (2.23 [95% CI, 1.31-3.15]) compared with the DD-LD sequence. The net outcomes in patients 10 years of age (0.36 [95% CI, -0.51 to 1.23] additional life-years) and 15 years of age (0.64 [95% CI, -0.15 to 1.39] additional life-years) were not significantly different. However, for those aged 10 years, an LD-DD sequence was favored if eligibility for a second transplant was low (2.09 [95% CI, 1.20-2.98] additional life-years) or if the LD was no longer available (2.32 [95% CI, 1.52-3.12] additional life-years). For those aged 15 years, the LD-DD sequence was favored if the eligibility for a second transplant was low (1.84 [95% CI, 0.96-2.72] additional life-years) or if the LD was no longer available (2.49 [95% CI, 1.77-3.27] additional life-years). Access to multiple DD transplants did not compensate for missing the LD opportunity.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

These findings suggest that the decreased use of LD kidney transplants in pediatric recipients during the past 2 decades should be scrutinized. Given the uncertainty of future recipient eligibility for retransplant and future availability of an LD transplant, the LD-DD sequence is likely the better option. This strategy of an LD transplant first would not only benefit pediatric recipients but allow DD kidneys to be used by others who do not have an LD option.

Predictive factors of surgical complications in the first year following kidney transplantation

BACKGROUND

In the recent years, an increased use of marginal donors and grafts and a growing prevalence of peripheral arterial disease in the recipients have been observed. Meanwhile, the open surgical technique for kidney transplantation has not changed. The aim of this study is to analyze all surgical complications occurring in the first year after kidney transplant and to determine potential predictive risk factors.

METHOD

Data of the 399 patients who underwent kidney transplant in our University Hospital between January 2006 and December 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. The primary endpoint was the overall rate of vascular, parietal and urological complications at 1 year following kidney transplantation. The secondary outcomes were graft and patient' survival rates, and the identification of predictive factors of the surgical complications.

RESULTS

Twenty-four percent of patients developed 134 complications. Vascular complication represented 39% of all complications and resulted in 9 graft losses. Parietal and urological complications represented 46% and 15% of all complications, respectively, No parietal or urological complications were associated with graft loss. Five patients died during the first year, none of these cases was associated with graft loss. The graft survival rate reached 96% at 1 year, including patients still alive. The occurrence of surgical complication was associated with reduced graft survival at 1 year. Using a multivariate analysis, 4 predictive factors were identified: age, deceased donor, operative time and dyslipidemia.

CONCLUSION

Surgical complications after kidney transplantation remained frequent and age, deceased kidney donors, and operative time were identified as risk factors. As vascular complications were a major cause of early graft loss, efforts should aim to reduce their occurrence to increase graft survival.

A Quality Improvement Intervention to Enhance Access to Kidney Transplantation and Living Kidney Donation (EnAKT LKD) in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease: Clinical Research Protocol of a Cluster-Randomized Clinical Trial

Background:

Many patients with kidney failure will live longer and healthier lives if they receive a kidney transplant rather than dialysis. However, multiple barriers prevent patients from accessing this treatment option.

Objective:

To determine if a quality improvement intervention provided in chronic kidney disease (CKD) programs (vs. usual care) enables more patients with no recorded contraindications to kidney transplant to complete more steps toward receiving a kidney transplant.

Design:

This protocol describes a pragmatic 2-arm, parallel-group, open-label, registry-based, cluster-randomized clinical trial—the Enhance Access to Kidney Transplantation and Living Kidney Donation (EnAKT LKD) trial.

Setting:

All 26 CKD programs in Ontario, Canada, with a trial start date of November 1, 2017. The original end date of March 31, 2021 (3.4 years) has been extended to December 31, 2021 (4.1 years) due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Participants:

During the trial, the 26 CKD programs are expected to care for more than 10 000 adult patients with CKD (including patients approaching the need for dialysis and patients receiving dialysis) with no recorded contraindications to a kidney transplant.

Intervention:

Programs were randomly allocated to provide a quality improvement intervention or usual care. The intervention has 4 main components: (1) local quality improvement teams and administrative support; (2) tailored education and resources for staff, patients, and living kidney donor candidates; (3) support from kidney transplant recipients and living kidney donors; and (4) program-level performance reports and oversight by program leaders.

Primary Outcome:

The primary outcome is the number of key steps completed toward receiving a kidney transplant analyzed at the cluster level (CKD program). The following 4 unique steps per patient will be counted: (1) patient referred to a transplant center for evaluation, (2) at least one living kidney donor candidate contacts a transplant center for an intended recipient and completes a health history questionnaire to begin their evaluation, (3) patient added to the deceased donor transplant wait list, and (4) patient receives a kidney transplant from a living or deceased donor.

Planned Primary Analysis:

Study data will be obtained from Ontario’s linked administrative healthcare databases. An intent-to-treat analysis will be conducted comparing the primary outcome between randomized groups using a 2-stage approach. First stage: residuals are obtained from fitting a regression model to individual-level variables ignoring intervention and clustering effects. Second stage: residuals from the first stage are aggregated at the cluster level as the outcome.

Limitations:

It may not be possible to isolate independent effects of each intervention component, the usual care group could adopt intervention components leading to contamination bias, and the relatively small number of clusters could mean the 2 arms are not balanced on all baseline prognostic factors.

Conclusions:

The EnAKT LKD trial will provide high-quality evidence on whether a multi-component quality improvement intervention helps patients complete more steps toward receiving a kidney transplant.

Trial registration:

Clinicaltrials.gov; identifier: NCT03329521.

Destination Transplant: Protocol for a Parallel-group Randomized Trial of an Educational Intervention to Increase Kidney Transplant Among Black People on the Transplant Waiting List

For most patients with kidney failure, living donor kidney transplant (LDKT) is their best treatment option. Compared with White people, Black people are more likely to have kidney failure but less likely to receive LDKTs. In this study, the investigators will test an educational intervention, Destination Transplant, designed to reduce this disparity, among Black people already listed for kidney transplant.

The Association between Body Composition Measurements and Surgical Complications after Living Kidney Donation

Obesity is considered a risk factor for peri- and postoperative complications. Little is known about this risk in overweight living kidney donors. The aim of this study was to assess if anthropometric body measures and/or surgical determinants are associated with an increased incidence of peri- and postoperative complications after nephrectomy. We included 776 living kidney donors who donated between 2008 and 2018 at the University Medical Center Groningen. Prenephrectomy measures of body composition were body mass index (BMI), body surface area (BSA), waist circumference, weight, and waist–hip ratio. Incidence and severity of peri- and postoperative complications were assessed using the Comprehensive Complication Index. Mean donor age was 53 ± 11 years; 382 (49%) were male, and mean BMI at donor screening was 26.2 ± 3.41 kg/m². In total, 77 donors (10%) experienced peri- and postoperative complications following donor nephrectomy. Male sex was significantly associated with fewer surgical complications (OR 0.59, 0.37–0.96 95%CI, p = 0.03) in binomial logistic regression analyses. Older age (OR: 1.03, 1.01–1.05 95%CI, p = 0.02) and a longer duration of surgery (OR: 1.01, 1.00–1.01 95%CI, p = 0.02) were significantly associated with more surgical complications in binomial logistic regression analyses. Multinomial logistic regression analyses did not identify any prenephrectomy measure of body composition associated with a higher risk of surgical complications. This study shows that higher prenephrectomy BMI and other anthropometric measures of body composition are not significantly associated with peri- and postoperative complications following living donor nephrectomy.

Two-year protocol biopsy after kidney transplantation in clinically stable recipients - a retrospective study

The idea of protocol biopsy is to detect subclinical pathologies, including rejection, recurrent disease, or infection for early intervention and adjustment of immunosuppressants. Nevertheless, it is not adopted by most clinicians because of its low yield rate and uncertain long-term benefits. This retrospective study evaluated the impact of protocol biopsy on renal function and allograft survival. A two-year protocol biopsy was proposed for 190 stable patients; 68 of them accepted [protocol biopsy (PB) group], while 122 did not [nonprotocol biopsy (NPB) group]. The rejection diagnosis was made in 13 patients by protocol biopsy, and 11 of them had borderline rejection. In the following 5 years, graft survival was better in the PB group than in the NPB group (P = 0.0143). A total of 4 and 17 patients in the PB and NPB groups, respectively, had rejection events proven by indication biopsy. Renal function was better preserved in the PB group than in the NPB group (P = 0.0107) for patients with rejection events. Nevertheless, the survival benefit disappeared by a longer follow-up period (12-year, P = 0.2886). In conclusion, 2-year protocol biopsy detects subclinical pathological changes in rejection and preserves renal function by early intervention so as to prolong graft survival within 5 years.

Barriers to kidney transplantation in ESKD

Kidney transplantation is the ideal treatment option for patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Since there is clear mortality benefit to receiving a transplant regardless of comorbidities and age, the gold standard of care should focus on attaining kidney transplantation and minimizing, or better yet eliminating, time on dialysis. Unfortunately, only a small percentage of patients with ESKD receive a kidney transplant. Several barriers to kidney transplantation have been identified. Barriers can largely be grouped into three categories: patient-related, physician/provider-related, and system-related. Several barriers fall into multiple categories and play a role at various levels within the healthcare system. Acknowledging and understanding these barriers will allow transplant centers and dialysis facilities to make the necessary interventions to mitigate these disparities, optimize the transplant evaluation process, and improve patient outcomes. This review will discuss these barriers and potential interventions to increase access to kidney transplantation.

Colorectal Surgery in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Decade of Trends and Outcomes in the United States

There is paucity of data evaluating the trends and outcomes of colorectal surgery (CRS) in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample 2001 to 2010, a retrospective review of CRS performed in KTRs was performed. Trends, demographics, indications, and outcomes were examined for elective and emergent cases and compared with the general population (GP) on multivariate logistic regression. A total of 2616 KTRs underwent CRS, 50 per cent of which were done emergently. KTRs developed colon and rectal cancer at a younger age and had significantly higher incidence of comorbidities compared with the GP. Diverticular disease was the most common indication for surgery (48%) followed by cancer (30.6%). Compared with the GP, KTRs had higher rates of mortality (6.29 vs 3.64%), wound complications (8.02 vs 5.37%), and acute renal failure (ARF) (17.14 vs 7.10%) (all P < 0.05). No difference was seen in the incidence of anastomotic leak. On multivariate analysis, KTRs had higher associated odds of ARF (odds ratio, 2.02; P < 0.001), whereas the odds of mortality, wound, and anastomotic complications were similar to the GP. Emergency surgery in KTRs was associated with worse outcomes compared with the elective setting. KTRs undergoing CRS have unique characteristics that are different than the GP. They are at an increased risk of complications, especially acute renal failure.

Trends in Living Donation by Race and Ethnicity Among Children With End-stage Renal Disease in the United States, 1995-2015

BACKGROUND

Living donor kidney transplants have declined among adults with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), with increases in racial/ethnic disparities over time. Secular trends in racial/ethnic disparities in living donor kidney transplantation have not been well studied in children.

METHODS

Using multivariable Cox modeling, we examined changes in living donor kidney transplant rates over time and probability of receiving living donor kidney transplantation within 2 years of incident ESRD by race/ethnicity among 19 772 children in the US Renal Data System, 1995-2015. We also examined racial/ethnic concordance between donors and recipients.

RESULTS

Overall, living donor kidney transplant rates declined by 3% annually since 1995 for all racial/ethnic groups except Asians for whom living donor kidney transplant rates remained stable; however, disparities persist. Compared with non-Hispanic white children, Hispanics were 42% less likely (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.58; 95% confidence interval: 0.49-0.67), Asians 39% less likely (0.61; 0.47-0.79), and blacks 66% less likely (0.34; 0.28-0.42) to receive living kidney donor transplantation within 2 years, even when accounting for deceased donor transplantation as a competing risk. Additionally, while 95% of non-Hispanic white children had non-Hispanic white donors, only 56% of Asian recipients had Asian donors (P < 0.001). Asian recipients were more likely to have nonrelated donors (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

There are ongoing declines in living donation for children with ESRD for uncertain reasons, and minority populations experience significantly reduced access to timely living donor transplant, even when accounting for changes in deceased donation and donor-recipient relationships.

Enhanced Advocacy and Health Systems Training Through Patient Navigation Increases Access to Living-donor Kidney Transplantation

BACKGROUND

To date, no living donation program has simultaneously addressed the needs of both transplant candidates and living donors by separating the advocacy role from the candidate and improving potential donor comfort with the evaluation process. We hypothesized that the development of a novel program designed to promote both advocacy and systems training among transplant candidates and their potential living kidney donors would result in sustained increases in living-donor kidney transplantation (LDKT). To this end, we developed and implemented a Living Donor Navigator (LDN) Program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

METHODS

We included adult patients awaiting kidney-only transplant in a retrospective cohort analysis. Using time-varying Cox proportional hazards regression, we explored likelihood of living donor screening and approval by participation in the LDN program.

RESULTS

There were 56 LDN participants and 1948 nonparticipants (standard of care). LDN was associated with a 9-fold increased likelihood of living donor screenings (adjusted hazard ratio, 9.27; 95% confidence interval, 5.97-14.41, P < 0.001) and a 7-fold increased likelihood of having an approved living donor (adjusted hazard ratio, 7.74; 95% confidence interval, 3.54-16.93; P < 0.001) compared with the standard of care. Analyses by participant race demonstrated higher likelihood of screened donors and a similar likelihood of having an approved donor among African Americans compared with Caucasians.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that both advocacy and systems training are needed to increase actual LDKT rates, and that LDN programs may mitigate existing racial disparities in access to LDKT.

Renal allograft loss due to renal vascular thrombosis in the US pediatric renal transplantation

BACKGROUND

Renal vascular thrombosis (RVT) is a major cause of early allograft loss in the first year following pediatric kidney transplantation. We examined recent trends in allograft loss due to RVT and identified associated risk factors.

METHODS

We identified 14,640 kidney-only transplants performed between 1995 and 2014 with follow-up until June 30, 2016, in 13,758 pediatric patients aged < 19 years from the US Renal Data System. We examined the 1-year incidence of allograft loss due to RVT by year of transplant, and plotted the trend over time. Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate the relationship between year of transplant as well as recipient, donor, and transplant characteristics with allograft loss due to RVT.

RESULTS

The incidence of allograft loss due to RVT consistently declined among pediatric kidney transplant performed between 1995 and 2014. Among transplants performed between 1995 and 2004, 128/7542 (1.7%) allografts were lost due to RVT compared to 53/7098 (0.8%) among transplants performed between 2005 and 2014; average 1-year cumulative incidence was 1.5% (95% CI, 1.3-1.9%) and 0.6% (95% CI, 0.5-0.8%), respectively. Increased risk for allograft loss due to RVT was associated with en bloc kidney transplantation (HR, 3.42; 95% CI 1.38-8.43) and cold ischemia time ≥ 12 h (HR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.15-2.76). Interestingly, these risk factors were more prevalent in the latter decade.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of allograft loss due to RVT significantly and continuously declined among pediatric kidney transplants performed between 1995 and 2014. The causes for this improvement are unclear in the present analysis.

The non-directed living kidney donor: Why donate to strangers?

BACKGROUND

Kidney transplantation improves survival and quality of life for patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). However, there is a shortage of donated organs, resulting in long wait times and the potential for death before a donor is found. Non-directed (also called altruistic) living kidney donation is a growing type of donation; however, few studies have examined the values and motivation of individuals evaluated to be a non-directed donor.

OBJECTIVES

This qualitative study explores the motivations and values of individuals evaluated for non-directed donation.

DESIGN

Focus groups were conducted with individuals who had been evaluated for non-directed living kidney donation. Grounded theory method guided the data analysis.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants (N = 11) were individuals who completed the evaluation for a non-directed living kidney donation.

FINDINGS

Qualitative analyses revealed eight major themes participants considered in making their decision to donate to a non-related person: (i) motivation to donate; (ii) minimise perceived risk; (iii) ideal selected recipient; (iv) change in lifestyle; (v) source of donation knowledge; (vi) history of altruistic acts; (vii) donation chain and (viii) others' response.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest that non-directed living kidney donors think deeply about their decision and have a resolve to help others that is aligned with their values. As organ availability remains at a critical shortage, unwillingness to consider non-directed living donors (NDD) due to beliefs of ill motivations appears unsupported. Future directions call for the need of standard practice of care in kidney donation evaluations across transplant centers.

Helping More Patients Receive a Living Donor Kidney Transplant

The best treatment option for many patients with kidney failure is a kidney transplant from a living donor. Countries that successfully increase their rate of living kidney donation will decrease their reliance on dialysis, the most expensive and high-risk form of kidney replacement therapy. Outlined here are some barriers that prevent some patients from pursuing living kidney donation and current knowledge on some potential solutions to these barriers. Also described are strategies to promote living kidney donation in a defensible system of practice. Safely increasing the rate of living kidney donation will require better programs and policies to improve the experiences of living donors and their recipients, to safeguard the practice for years to come.

Unusual Bilateral Renal Parenchymal Urine Leak After Pediatric En Bloc Kidney Transplantation: First Case Study Report

Kidney transplantation is usually the best course of treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease. En bloc kidney transplantation (EBKT) is a surgical treatment option that increases available donor organs with excellent graft survival for patients with end-stage renal disease. Herein, we report a case of an unusual bilateral renal parenchymal urine leak after EBKT leading to removal of both moieties of the EBKT. This unfortunate complication after EBKT, to our knowledge, is the only reported of its kind. We explore the possible causes of the bilateral parenchymal urine leaks and suggest preventive strategies to avoid urological complications after EBKT.

Use of Intraoperative Duplex Ultrasound and Resistance Index Reduces Complications in Living Renal Donor Transplantation

BACKGROUND

The treatment of choice in end-stage renal disease is transplantation. Hemodynamic disturbances can evoke graft loss, while early ultrasound identification of vascular problems improves outcome. The aim of this study was to identify differences in postoperative complications with and without systematic intraoperative Doppler ultrasound use.

METHODS

The primary outcome was the postoperative rate of complications and the secondary aim was to find a predictive resistance index cut-off value, which would show where surgical reintervention was necessary. Over a 10-year period, 108 renal transplants were performed from living donors at our institution. In group 1 (n = 67), intraoperative duplex ultrasound and intraparenchymatous resistance index measurements assessed patients, while in group 2 (n = 41), no ultrasound was performed.

RESULTS

There were no intergroup differences in the overall postoperative complication rate or in benefit to graft or patient survival with Doppler use. However, significantly more vascular complications (10% vs 0%, P = .02) and more acute rejections (37% vs 10%) occurred in group 2 than in group 1. Therefore, an intraoperative cut-off value of the resistance index 0.5 was proposed to justify immediate surgical revision.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report demonstrating benefits of systematic intraoperative Doppler ultrasound on postoperative complications in renal transplantation from living donors. Our results support surgical revision with a resistance index <0.5.

Decreasing deceased donor transplant rates among children (≤6 years) under the new kidney allocation system

The Kidney Allocation System (KAS) was implemented in December 2014 with unknown impact on the pediatric waitlist. To understand the effect of KAS on pediatric registrants, deceased donor kidney transplant (DDKT) rate was assessed using interrupted time series analysis and time-to-event analysis. Two allocation eras were defined with an intermediary washout period: Era 1 (01/01/2013-09/01/2014), Era 2 (09/01/2014-03/01/2015), and Era 3(03/01/2015-03/01/2017). When using Cox proportional hazards, there was no significant association between allocation era and DDKT likelihood as compared to Era 1 (Era 3: aHR: 1.07, 95% CI: 0.97-1.18, P = .17). However, this was not consistent across all subgroups. Specifically, while highly sensitized pediatric registrants were consistently less likely to be transplanted than their less sensitized counterparts, this disparity was attenuated in Era 3 (Era 1 aHR: 0.04, 95%CI: 0.01-0.14, P < .001; Era 3 aHR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.21-0.53, P < .001) whereas the youngest registrants aged 0-6 experienced a 21% decrease in DDKT likelihood in Era 3 as compared to Era 1 (aHR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.64-0.98, P = .03). Thus, while overall DDKT likelihood remained stable with the introduction of KAS, registrants ≤ 6 years of age were disadvantaged, warranting further study to ensure equitable access to transplantation.

Inferior long-term allograft and patient outcomes among recipients of offspring living donor kidneys

While offspring-to-parent living donor kidney transplantations may represent an ideal donor-recipient combination to optimize long-term transplantation outcomes, the sex-specific long-term success of these transplantations remains unclear. We hypothesize that allograft and recipient survivals in offspring-to-parent living donor kidney transplantation differ between men and women due to donor-specific alloimmunization during pregnancy. We retrospectively analyzed long-term allograft and patient survival among men and women who received an offspring living donor kidney compared with those who received other haplotype-matched living donor kidneys. Based on multivariable Cox proportional hazards modeling of Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network data from 2001 to 2015, we found that both men and women who received offspring living donor kidneys had significantly increased mortality compared with recipients who received nonoffspring living donor kidneys. While male recipients of any living donor kidney had greater risk of mortality and allograft failure than female recipients, there was no significant difference in all-cause allograft failure or mortality in male versus female recipients of offspring living donor kidney transplantations. Our analysis demonstrated no significant interaction between recipient sex and donor offspring status. We conclude that nonoffspring living donors should be considered whenever feasible for both men and women with multiple donor options.

Geographic disparity in kidney transplantation under KAS

The Kidney Allocation System fundamentally altered kidney allocation, causing a substantial increase in regional and national sharing that we hypothesized might impact geographic disparities. We measured geographic disparity in deceased donor kidney transplant (DDKT) rate under KAS (6/1/2015-12/1/2016), and compared that with pre-KAS (6/1/2013-12/3/2014). We modeled DSA-level DDKT rates with multilevel Poisson regression, adjusting for allocation factors under KAS. Using the model we calculated a novel, improved metric of geographic disparity: the median incidence rate ratio (MIRR) of transplant rate, a measure of DSA-level variation that accounts for patient casemix and is robust to outlier values. Under KAS, MIRR was _1.75 1.81_1.86 for adults, meaning that similar candidates across different DSAs have a median 1.81-fold difference in DDKT rate. The impact of geography was greater than the impact of factors emphasized by KAS: having an EPTS score ≤20% was associated with a 1.40-fold increase (IRR = _1.35 1.40_1.45 , P < .01) and a three-year dialysis vintage was associated with a 1.57-fold increase (IRR = _1.56 1.57_1.59 , P < .001) in transplant rate. For pediatric candidates, MIRR was even more pronounced, at _1.66 1.92_2.27 . There was no change in geographic disparities with KAS (P = .3). Despite extensive changes to kidney allocation under KAS, geography remains a primary determinant of access to DDKT.

Comparison of Both Sides for Retroperitoneal Laparoscopic Donor Nephrectomy: Experience From a Single Center in China

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) has gradually become the main approach to obtain live donor kidneys. However, the shorter right renal vein limits its wider application. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of left- and right-side retroperitoneal LDN.

METHODS

We reviewed the perioperative data of 527 consecutive donors receiving retroperitoneal pure LDN with a new method at our center between April 2009 and April 2014. The patients were divided into group A (the first 100 patients) and group B (the remaining 427 patients). A total of 423 cases of left donor surgery and 104 cases of right donor surgery were compared. The comparison of the laterality of LDN was also performed between group A and group B.

RESULTS

This is currently the largest case series of LDN in our country. Although right-side LDN patients had longer operation time and a slightly higher incidence of intraoperative complications compared with left-side LDN patients, the operation time was shorter in both the groups compared with previous reports. In group B, patients undergoing right-side LDN had longer operation time and more frequent complications. Once the learning curve of 100 cases was completed, the incidence of complications and operation time were greatly reduced in both sides for LDN. There was no significant difference in the serum creatinine levels in recipients at 6 months of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite a slightly higher incidence of complications and longer operation time, right-side LDN can achieve equally safe and effective transplantation outcomes. This expands the source of potential donor kidneys.

The association of discharge decisions after deceased donor kidney transplantation with the risk of early readmission: Results from the deceased donor study

BACKGROUND

Kidney transplant (KT) recipients experience high rates of early (≤30 days) hospital readmission (EHR) after KT, and existing studies provide limited data on modifiable discharge factors that may mitigate EHR risk.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of 468 adult deceased donor KT recipients transplanted between 4/2010 and 11/2013 at 5 United States transplant centers. We fit multivariable mixed effects models to assess the association of two potentially modifiable discharge factors with the probability of EHR after KT: (i) weekend discharge and (ii) days to first scheduled follow-up.

RESULTS

Among 468 KT recipients, 38% (n = 178) experienced EHR after KT. In fully adjusted analyses, compared to weekday discharges, KT recipients discharged on the weekend had a 29% lower risk of EHR (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.41-0.94). Compared to follow-up within 2 days of discharge, KT recipients with follow-up within 3 to 6 days had a 28% higher probability of EHR (aOR 1.28, 95% CI 1.13-1.45).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that clinical decisions related to the timing of discharge and follow-up modify EHR risk after KT, independent of traditional risk factors.

Could the female-to-male transgender population be donor candidates for uterus transplantation?

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the eligibility of female-to-male (FtM) transgender people as donor candidates with regard to histologic, surgical, and social aspects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this prospective cohort study, 31 FtM transgender people underwent standard hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for gender reassignment upon their request. The pelvic viscera of the transgender people was intraoperatively observed and the histology of the removed uteri were evaluated for fertility capacity and procurement surgery. A questionnaire was administered to explore their attitude towards uterus donation.

RESULTS

The mean ± standard deviation age was 28.5±5 years. The median duration of testosterone supplementation was 2.4 years; therefore, they all had irregular menstrual periods during this therapy. None had any previous abdominal surgery or additional morbidity. The mean uterine volume was 138±48 cm3. No adenomyosis, endometriosis, polyps, adhesions or uterine anomalies were either observed or reported. Endometrial histology was reported as proliferative (58%), atrophic (29%), and secretory (13%) pattern. Of the 31 transgender people, 30 (96.7%) had a positive attitude; only one had no opinion at the beginning. After detailed information about the procedure was given, 26 (84%) still wanted to volunteer for donation, but 4 (12%) changed their opinion to negative (p=0.12, McNemar test).

CONCLUSION

The proposal of the FtM transgender population as uterus donor is a hypothetical model that has not been experienced before. Nevertheless, our experience revealed that the FtM transgender population would be good candidates socially, legally, and biologically.

Pediatric pancreas transplantation, including total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation

Unlike other solid-organ transplants, whole pancreas transplantation in children is relatively rare, and it occurs more frequently in the context of multivisceral or composite organ transplantation. Because children only infrequently suffer severe sequelae of type 1 diabetes mellitus, pancreas transplantation is rarely indicated in the pediatric population. More commonly, pediatric pancreas transplant occurs in the setting of incapacitating acute recurrent or chronic pancreatitis, specifically islet autotransplantation after total pancreatectomy. In this clinical scenario, total pancreatectomy removes the nidus of chronic pain and debilitation, while autologous islet transplantation aims to preserve endocrine function. The published experiences with pediatric total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (TPIAT) in children has demonstrated excellent outcomes including liberation from chronic opioid use, as well as improved mental and physical quality of life with good glycemic control. Given the complexity of the operation, risk of postoperative complication, and long-term physiologic changes, appropriate patient selection and comprehensive multidisciplinary care teams are critical to ensuring optimal outcomes.

Social Media Use Among Living Kidney Donors and Recipients: Survey on Current Practice and Potential

Background

In the United States, there is a national shortage of organs donated for transplant. Among the solid organs, most often kidneys are donated by living donors, but the lack of information and complicated processes limit the number of individuals who serve as living kidney donors. Social media can be a tool for advocacy, educating the public about the need, process, and outcomes of live kidney donors, yet little is known about social media use by kidney transplant patients.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the social media use of potential kidney transplant patients and their willingness to use social media and their networks to advocate and educate about living kidney donation.

Methods

Using a validated survey, we modified the instrument to apply to the patient population of interest attending the Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA. The questions on the survey inquired about current social media use, sites visited, frequency and duration of social media use, and willingness to use social media to share the need for living kidney donors. We asked patients who had received a transplant and those awaiting a transplant to complete the survey during an office visit. Participation was voluntary.

Results

A total of 199 patients completed the survey. Approximately half of all kidney transplant patients surveyed used social media (104/199, 52.3%), and approximately one-third (66/199, 33.2%) had more than 100 friends in their social media network. Facebook was the most popular site, and 51% (102/199) reported that they would be willing to post information about living kidney donation on their social networks. More than a quarter of the sample (75/199, 37.7%) had posted about their health status in the past.

Conclusions

Social media holds great promise for health-related education and awareness. Our study shows the current social media use of kidney transplant patients. In turn, such information can be used to design interventions to ensure appropriate decision making about live kidney donation. Transplant programs can help increase the number of living donors by providing guidance to kidney transplant patients in how to use social media, to be advocates, and to provide information about living kidney donation to their social network.

Trends in Usage and Outcomes for Expanded Criteria Donor Kidney Transplantation in the United States Characterized by Kidney Donor Profile Index

There has been increasing concern in the kidney transplant community about the declining use of expanded criteria donors (ECD) despite improvement in survival and quality of life. The recent introduction of the Kidney Donor Profile Index (KDPI), which provides a more granular characterization of donor quality, was expected to increase utilization of marginal kidneys and decrease the discard rates. However, trends and practice patterns of ECD kidney utilization on a national level based on donor organ quality as per KDPI are not well known. We, therefore, performed a trend analysis of all ECD recipients in the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) registry between 2002 and 2012, after calculating the corresponding KDPI, to enable understanding the trends of usage and outcomes based on the KDPI characterization. High-risk recipient characteristics (diabetes, body mass index ≥30 kg/m², hypertension, and age ≥60 years) increased over the period of the study (trend test p<0.001 for all). The proportion of ECD transplants increased from 18% in 2003 to a peak of 20.4% in 2008 and then declined thereafter to 17.3% in 2012. Using the KDPI >85% definition, the proportion increased from 9.4% in 2003 to a peak of 12.1% in 2008 and declined to 9.7% in 2012. Overall, although this represents a significant utilization of kidneys with KDPI >85% over time (p<0.001), recent years have seen a decline in usage, probably related to regulations imposed by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

When comparing the hazards of graft failure by KDPI, ECD kidneys with KDPI >85% have a slightly lower risk of graft failure compared to standard criteria donor (SCD) kidneys with KDPI >85%, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.95, a confidence interval (CI) of 0.94-0.96, and statistical significance of p<0.001. This indicates that some SCD kidneys may actually have a lower estimated quality, with a higher Kidney Donor Risk Index (KDRI), than some ECDs. The incidence of delayed graft function (DGF) in ECD recipients has significantly decreased over time from 35.2% in 2003 to 29.6% in 2011 (p=0.007), probably related to better understanding of the donor risk profile along with increased use of hypothermic machine perfusion and pretransplant biopsy to aid in optimal allograft selection.

The recent decline in transplantation of KDPI >85% kidneys probably reflects risk-averse transplant center behavior. Whether discard of discordant SCD kidneys with KDPI >85% has contributed to this decline remains to be studied.

Long-Term Outcomes in Belatacept- Versus Cyclosporine-Treated Recipients of Extended Criteria Donor Kidneys: Final Results From BENEFIT-EXT, a Phase III Randomized Study

In the Belatacept Evaluation of Nephroprotection and Efficacy as First-Line Immunosuppression Trial-Extended Criteria Donors (BENEFIT-EXT), extended criteria donor kidney recipients were randomized to receive belatacept-based (more intense [MI] or less intense [LI]) or cyclosporine-based immunosuppression. In prior analyses, belatacept was associated with significantly better renal function compared with cyclosporine. In this prospective analysis of the intent-to-treat population, efficacy and safety were compared across regimens at 7 years after transplant. Overall, 128 of 184 belatacept MI-treated, 138 of 175 belatacept LI-treated and 108 of 184 cyclosporine-treated patients contributed data to these analyses. Hazard ratios (HRs) comparing time to death or graft loss were 0.915 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.625-1.339; p = 0.65) for belatacept MI versus cyclosporine and 0.927 (95% CI 0.634-1.356; p = 0.70) for belatacept LI versus cyclosporine. Mean estimated GFR (eGFR) plus or minus standard error at 7 years was 53.9 ± 1.9, 54.2 ± 1.9, and 35.3 ± 2.0 mL/min per 1.73 m² for belatacept MI, belatacept LI and cyclosporine, respectively (p < 0.001 for overall treatment effect). HRs comparing freedom from death, graft loss or eGFR <20 mL/min per 1.73 m² were 0.754 (95% CI 0.536-1.061; p = 0.10) for belatacept MI versus cyclosporine and 0.706 (95% CI 0.499-0.998; p = 0.05) for belatacept LI versus cyclosporine. Acute rejection rates and safety profiles of belatacept- and cyclosporine-based treatment were similar. De novo donor-specific antibody incidence was lower for belatacept (p ≤ 0.0001). Relative to cyclosporine, belatacept was associated with similar death and graft loss and improved renal function at 7 years after transplant and had a safety profile consistent with previous reports.

A diverse virome in kidney transplant patients contains multiple viral subtypes with distinct polymorphisms

Recent studies have established that the human urine contains a complex microbiome, including a virome about which little is known. Following immunosuppression in kidney transplant patients, BK polyomavirus (BKV) has been shown to induce nephropathy (BKVN), decreasing graft survival. In this study we investigated the urine virome profile of BKV+ and BKV- kidney transplant recipients. Virus-like particles were stained to confirm the presence of VLP in the urine samples. Metagenomic DNA was purified, and the virome profile was analyzed using metagenomic shotgun sequencing. While the BK virus was predominant in the BKV+ group, it was also found in the BKV- group patients. Additional viruses were also detected in all patients, notably including JC virus (JCV) and Torque teno virus (TTV) and interestingly, we detected multiple subtypes of the BKV, JCV and TTV. Analysis of the BKV subtypes showed that nucleotide polymorphisms were detected in the VP1, VP2 and Large T Antigen proteins, suggesting potential functional effects for enhanced pathogenicity. Our results demonstrate a complex urinary virome in kidney transplant patients with multiple viruses with several distinct subtypes warranting further analysis of virus subtypes in immunosuppressed hosts.

Multiorgan transplantation

Kidney transplantation has proven to be the gold standard therapy for severe chronic kidney disease (CKD) due to multiple etiologies in individuals deemed eligible from a surgical standpoint. While kidney transplantation is traditionally considered in conditions of native kidney disease such as diabetes and immunological or inherited causes of kidney disease, an increasing indication for kidney transplantation is kidney dysfunction in the setting of other severe organ dysfunction that requires transplant, such as severe liver or heart disease. In these settings, multiorgan transplantation is now commonly performed, with controversy regarding the appropriate utilization of kidneys transplanted both from a physiological perspective (distinguishing those who require a kidney transplant) and also from an ethical perspective (allocation of a scarce resource to a more morbid population). These issues persist in the setting of simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant (SPK), in which utilization for patients with type 1 diabetes has been historically accepted. Questions of physiological benefit persist, and utilization is waning despite broader allocation policies that encourage SPK, including consideration for patients with type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this review will be to summarize the physiological data regarding multiorgan transplantation and place these into context while reviewing current allocation policy in the United States.

Outcomes of living kidney donors with rheumatoid arthritis

BACKGROUND

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to have reduced kidney function develop over time. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and safety outcomes of living kidney donors with rheumatoid arthritis.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study at a tertiary referral hospital to assess the outcomes of living kidney donors with rheumatoid arthritis. All 6 adults with rheumatoid arthritis who underwent nephrectomy as living kidney donors between January 2000 and September 2014 were included. Eighteen nondonors with rheumatoid arthritis (3 nondonors per donor) were randomly selected for comparison by matching the year of birth and comorbidity score.

RESULTS

None of the donors with rheumatoid arthritis had a flare-up of arthritis at a median follow-up time of 5.9 years (interquartile range [IQR], 3.1-7.5 years), while 5 (27.8%) nondonors with rheumatoid arthritis had a flare-up at a median follow-up time of 4.7 years (IQR, 3.1-6.7 years). After nephrectomy, donors' estimated glomerular filtration rate decreased to a mean of 43.53 (SD, 4) mL/min per 1.73 m2 at 7 days after the index date. The estimated glomerular filtration rate of donors subsequently increased significantly at rate of 3.99 mL/min per 1.73 m2 (P<.001). None of the donors with rheumatoid arthritis had end-stage renal disease develop or died at median follow-up times of 5.9 (IQR, 3.1-7.5) years and 8.2 (IQR, 5.8-9.7) years, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Healthy kidney donors with rheumatoid arthritis have good outcomes, with no increased risk of decline in renal function, end-stage renal disease, or death.

Outcomes of living kidney donors with medullary sponge kidney

BACKGROUND

Patients with medullary sponge kidney (MSK) commonly encounter recurrent nephrolithiasis. The existing knowledge on safety of donors with MSK has not been studied.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a tertiary referral hospital to assess the outcomes of living kidney donors with MSK. All adults with MSK (N = 26) who underwent nephrectomy as living kidney donors between January 2000 and September 2014 were included. Non-donors with MSK (N = 78) were randomly selected by matching the year of birth and the comorbidity score with a ratio of 1:3 for comparison.

RESULTS

The incident rates of symptomatic stone were 0.7, 0.4 and 4.9 events/100 patient-years in donors, recipients and non-donors, respectively. After adjusting for history of kidney stones and baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), the kidney stone-related event was significantly lower in donors than in non-donors (hazard ratio 0.14; 95% confidence interval 0.01-0.66). One recipient of MSK living donor had symptomatic stone at median follow-up time of 8.4 years (interquartile range 5.6-12.4 years). None of MSK donors had hypercalciuria, hypocitraturia or hyperoxaluria prior to kidney donation. At 5 years after the index surgery date, there was no significant difference in eGFR between donors and non-donors (76.1 versus 70.9 mL/min/1.73 m², P = 0.12).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings are reassuring for the safety of MSK kidney donors with normal kidney function, low kidney stone risk and no significant comorbidity.

Outcomes of kidneys utilized from deceased donors with severe acute kidney injury

BACKGROUND

Significant numbers of kidneys are discarded due to raised terminal creatinine of the donor.

AIM

To determine long-term outcomes of kidneys utilized from donors with severe acute kidney injury (AKI).

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we included all patients who received kidneys from deceased donors between years 2000 and 2012. AKI was defined according to the acute kidney injury network (AKIN) classification. The primary outcomes were patient and graft survival and secondary outcomes were renal function at different time points, delayed graft function, acute rejection and length of hospital stay.

RESULTS

Two hundred and eighty-four recipients received kidneys from 261 deceased donors. One hundred and fourteen patients (40%) received kidneys from the donors with AKI. Forty-two patients received kidneys from the donors with severe AKI (AKIN-3 category). Mean age of the donor and recipient was 36 and 37 years, respectively. Main cause of death in donors was road traffic accident (34%) followed by cerebrovascular accident (33%). Terminal creatinine was 85 and 262 μmol/l in non-AKI and AKI groups, respectively (P < 0.001). Significantly more patients in the AKI group had delayed graft function (P = 0.006), prolonged hospital stay (P < 0.001) and high creatinine at discharge (P = 0.002). However, acute rejection rates (P = 0.25), 1-, 5- and 10-year graft survival (P = 0.57) and patient survival (P = 0.77) were not different between AKI and non-AKI groups. The outcomes in the AKIN-3 category were comparable with the non-AKI group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has shown favorable long-term outcomes of kidneys utilized from donors with severe AKI. This study may encourage healthcare professionals to consider accepting such kidneys.

Functional status, time to transplantation, and survival benefit of kidney transplantation among wait-listed candidates

BACKGROUND

In the context of an aging end-stage renal disease population with multiple comorbid conditions, transplantation professionals face challenges in evaluating the global health of patients awaiting kidney transplantation. Functional status might be useful for identifying which patients will derive a survival benefit from transplantation versus dialysis.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study of wait-listed patients using data for functional status from a national dialysis provider linked to United Network for Organ Sharing registry data.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

Adult kidney transplantation candidates added to the waiting list between 2000 and 2006.

PREDICTOR

Physical Functioning scale of the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey, analyzed as a time-varying covariate.

OUTCOMES

Kidney transplantation; survival benefit of transplantation versus remaining wait-listed.

MEASUREMENTS

We used multivariable Cox regression to assess the association between physical function with study outcomes. In survival benefit analyses, transplantation status was modeled as a time-varying covariate.

RESULTS

The cohort comprised 19,242 kidney transplantation candidates (median age, 51 years; 36% black race) receiving maintenance dialysis. Candidates in the lowest baseline Physical Functioning score quartile were more likely to be inactivated (adjusted HR vs highest quartile, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.21-1.39) and less likely to undergo transplantation (adjusted HR vs highest quartile, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.61-0.68). After transplantation, worse Physical Functioning score was associated with shorter 3-year survival (84% vs 92% for the lowest vs highest function quartiles). However, compared to dialysis, transplantation was associated with a statistically significant survival benefit by 9 months for patients in every function quartile.

LIMITATIONS

Functional status is self-reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Even patients with low function appear to live longer with kidney transplantation versus dialysis. For wait-listed patients, global health measures such as functional status may be more useful in counseling patients about the probability of transplantation than in identifying who will derive a survival benefit from it.

Functional status, time to transplantation, and survival benefit of kidney transplantation among wait-listed candidates

BACKGROUND

In the context of an aging end-stage renal disease population with multiple comorbid conditions, transplantation professionals face challenges in evaluating the global health of patients awaiting kidney transplantation. Functional status might be useful for identifying which patients will derive a survival benefit from transplantation versus dialysis.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study of wait-listed patients using data for functional status from a national dialysis provider linked to United Network for Organ Sharing registry data.

SETTING & PARTICIPANTS

Adult kidney transplantation candidates added to the waiting list between 2000 and 2006.

PREDICTOR

Physical Functioning scale of the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey, analyzed as a time-varying covariate.

OUTCOMES

Kidney transplantation; survival benefit of transplantation versus remaining wait-listed.

MEASUREMENTS

We used multivariable Cox regression to assess the association between physical function with study outcomes. In survival benefit analyses, transplantation status was modeled as a time-varying covariate.

RESULTS

The cohort comprised 19,242 kidney transplantation candidates (median age, 51 years; 36% black race) receiving maintenance dialysis. Candidates in the lowest baseline Physical Functioning score quartile were more likely to be inactivated (adjusted HR vs highest quartile, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.21-1.39) and less likely to undergo transplantation (adjusted HR vs highest quartile, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.61-0.68). After transplantation, worse Physical Functioning score was associated with shorter 3-year survival (84% vs 92% for the lowest vs highest function quartiles). However, compared to dialysis, transplantation was associated with a statistically significant survival benefit by 9 months for patients in every function quartile.

LIMITATIONS

Functional status is self-reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Even patients with low function appear to live longer with kidney transplantation versus dialysis. For wait-listed patients, global health measures such as functional status may be more useful in counseling patients about the probability of transplantation than in identifying who will derive a survival benefit from it.

A Comparison of the Request Process and Outcomes in Adult and Pediatric Organ Donation

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Although existing studies suggest that factors affecting families' decisions regarding pediatric organ donation mirror those for adult patients, health professionals working in this area maintain that pediatric and adult decision-makers differ in significant ways. This study compared the request process, experiences, and authorization decisions between family decision-makers (FDMs) of adult and pediatric donors and nondonors.

METHODS

Perceptions of the donation request were collected via telephone interviews with 1601 FDMs approached by staff from 9 US organ procurement organizations (OPOs). Authorization regarding donation (ie, authorized/refused) was obtained from FDM reports and verified by using OPO records. Tests of association were used to estimate differences between FDMs of adult and pediatric patients. A logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify variables predicting FDM authorization.

RESULTS

FDMs of children were significantly more likely to authorize donation than were FDMs of adults (89.7% vs 83.2%; χ(2) = 6.2, P = .01). Differences were found between pediatric and adult families' initial feelings toward donation, donation-related topics discussed, communication behaviors and techniques used, perceptions of the request, and receipt and preference of grief information. The likelihood of FDM authorization increased with the number of topics discussed and communication skills employed during requests. Authorization was not predicted by patient age (ie, adult versus pediatric).

CONCLUSIONS

FDMs of children are willing to donate and experience no more psychological distress from the request for donation than do FDMs of adults. Communication emerged as a critical factor of family authorization, reinforcing its importance in requests for donation.

Choosing the order of deceased donor and living donor kidney transplantation in pediatric recipients: a Markov decision process model

BACKGROUND

Most pediatric kidney transplant recipients eventually require retransplantation, and the most advantageous timing strategy regarding deceased and living donor transplantation in candidates with only 1 living donor remains unclear.

METHODS

A patient-oriented Markov decision process model was designed to compare, for a given patient with 1 living donor, living-donor-first followed if necessary by deceased donor retransplantation versus deceased-donor-first followed if necessary by living donor (if still able to donate) or deceased donor (if not) retransplantation. Based on Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients data, the model was designed to account for waitlist, graft, and patient survival, sensitization, increased risk of graft failure seen during late adolescence, and differential deceased donor waiting times based on pediatric priority allocation policies. Based on national cohort data, the model was also designed to account for aging or disease development, leading to ineligibility of the living donor over time.

RESULTS

Given a set of candidate and living donor characteristics, the Markov model provides the expected patient survival over a time horizon of 20 years. For the most highly sensitized patients (panel reactive antibody > 80%), a deceased-donor-first strategy was advantageous, but for all other patients (panel reactive antibody < 80%), a living-donor-first strategy was recommended.

CONCLUSIONS

This Markov model illustrates how patients, families, and providers can be provided information and predictions regarding the most advantageous use of deceased donor versus living donor transplantation for pediatric recipients.

Outcomes of liver transplantation alone after listing for simultaneous kidney: comparison to simultaneous liver kidney transplantation

BACKGROUND

Data on patient and liver graft survival comparing liver transplantation alone after listing for kidney with simultaneous liver kidney (SLK) transplantation are scanty.

METHODS

United Network Organ Sharing network database (1994-2011) queried for liver transplantation alone after being listed for kidney and SLK transplants.

RESULTS

Of 65,206 first liver transplants, 3549 were listed for simultaneous kidney. Of these, 422 (12%) received only liver (LIST) and differed from SLK recipients for the white race (64% vs. 57%; 0.005), diabetes (27% vs. 37%; P = 0.02), model for end-stage liver disease era (68% vs. 82%; P = 0.0001), serum creatinine (2.9±1.9 vs. 4.3±2.5; P < 0.0001), dialysis (35% vs. 64%; P < 0.0001), and donor risk index (1.6±0.4 vs. 1.5±0.3; P < 0.0001). Overall survival was poorer in the LIST group (55% vs. 76%; P < 0.0001). A higher proportion of patients died within 2 days of transplantation in LIST group (11% vs. 0.5%; P < 0.0001), mostly from cardiovascular causes. After excluding these patients, odds of patient mortality and liver graft loss were about 1.2-fold and twofold higher in the LIST group. A total of 103 (24%) patients needed a renal transplantation in the LIST group with 16 (4%) receiving kidney within first year after transplantation. After excluding patients receiving kidney within first year, about 33% recovered renal function to above estimated GFR of greater than 60 mL per min.

CONCLUSION

Guidelines are needed for patient selection to list for and receipt of simultaneous liver kidney transplantation.

Living kidney donation: outcomes, ethics, and uncertainty

Since the first living-donor kidney transplantation in 1954, more than half a million living kidney donations have occurred and research has advanced knowledge about long-term donor outcomes. Donors in developed countries have a similar life expectancy and quality of life as healthy non-donors. Living kidney donation is associated with an increased risk of end-stage renal disease, although this outcome is uncommon (<0·5% increase in incidence at 15 years). Kidney donation seems to elevate the risks of gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia. Many donors incur financial expenses due to factors such as lost wages, need for sick days, and travel expenses. Yet, most donors have no regrets about donation. Living kidney donation is practised ethically when informed consent incorporates information about risks, uncertainty about outcomes is acknowledged when it exists, and a donor's risks are proportional to benefits for the donor and recipient. Future research should determine whether outcomes are similar for donors from developing countries and donors with pre-existing conditions such as obesity.