Neonatal donation: are newborns too young to be recognized?

Conclusion: A low proportion (2%) of neonates who died in the NICUs were found suitable for organ donation, and a higher proportion (12%) were found suitable for tissue donation. We suggest that increased awareness concerning the possibility of neonatal donation would likely increase the identification of potential neonatal donors.What is Known:•There is an urgent need for very small organs and tissues from neonatal donorsWhat is New:•A number of neonates who died in the NICU were suitable organ or/and tissue donors but were not recognized as donors.•Knowledge on neonatal donation possibilities is also important for proper counseling of parents who sometimes inquire for the possibility of organ and tissue donation.
Source: European Journal of Pediatrics - Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research