Predictors of multiple listing for cadaver kidney transplantation and the effects of a ban on multiple listing in the United States — a summary

Abstract

In the United States, persons awaiting cadaveric kidneys for transplantation are listed by a transplant center with an Organ Procurement Organization (OPO) that belongs to the national Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN). The OPTN is operated under federal contract by the United Network for Organ Sharing and maintains a national list of all patients awaiting cadaveric kidneys for transplantation. Most kidney transplant candidates are on the waiting list at a transplant center in their local area. In most cases, transplant centers use the local OPO or, if there is more than one OPO in an area, transplant centers may choose the OPO to list their transplant patients. According to a policy statement released in March 1995, current OPTN rules prohibit a transplant center from listing the same patient with more than one OPO. Patients, however, are free to pursue waiting lists in multiple OPOs.