Title: Three Case Reports Of Organ Procurement From Brain-Dead Donors In Japan: Problems With Graft Shipping In Organ Procurement System
Abstract: In the 4 years since Japan's organ transplantation law went into effect, 22 organ procurements have taken place. To analyze problems in organ procurement from brain-dead donors, we reviewed the diagnosis of brain death and organ procurement in our 3 cases. 1) Although it signing and presentation of a donor card (“living will”) is generally regarded expression of definite intent of organ donation, this intent is not always fully discussed by family members. Procedures must proceed carefully until final decision-making for organ donation by family members. 2) To maximize respect for “living wills” in organ donation, we must reduce time taken for brain death diagnosis and organ procurement under legal guidelines and ensure organ viability. 3) The excellent results with organ transplantation surgery should be emphasized to improve organ transplantation awareness among potential donors.