Organ Donation

Once you have been accepted as a potential liver transplant recipient, the search for an appropriate organ donor begins. It is VITAL that an organ be found that:

1) is suitable for transplantation
2) matches the recipient


This section is dedicated to give you a better understanding of the organ donation process and clearing up any misconceptions you may have about the process. The means through which the organ donation system is accessed is through a call to the SAUDI CENTER FOR ORGAN TRANSPLANTATION (S.C.O.T.)

Once a donor is identified, the S.C.O.T. Program is notified. A S.C.O.T. Coordinator is available on a 24 hour basis to receive such calls. The information about the potential donor is then relayed to the transplant surgeon on call.

A multi-organ donor is usually a young person who has suffered a tragic injury to the head which has resulted in death of the brain. Normal function of all other organs of the body is maintained by machines. Brain death is diagnosed by two doctors. Consent for organ donation must be received from the family before a call to S.C.O.T. can be made.

Once it has been established that the donor liver is suitable, a recipient is chosen who best matches. Donor and recipient are matched according to blood group and body size. Should the rare occasion arise in which a donor can be matched equally with two recipients, the one more acutely ill at the time will receive the transplant. If both recipients present with the same level of need, the individual who has been waiting the longest will take priority. A recipient can receive either a male or female donor liver and the age limit is approximately 50 years. However, it must be stressed that our concern is more for the quality of the organ.

Once you have matched with an appropriate donor, you are asked to come to the hospital immediately to prepare for your liver transplant.

A “GIFT OF LIFE” has been given to you on behalf of the donor by their family members. At a time of grief for them, they have thought of others and give this gift to you freely and without obligation.

Should you wish to communicate with the family of your donor, you may do so through the transplant coordinator. Respect and confidentiality for both donor and recipient families are upheld at all times, and no names are revealed. If you wish further information, contact your Transplant Coordinator or the S.O.R.E. Program.