About The Transplant Process
Once a transplant referral is received, the transplant coordinator works with the referring physician, patient and family to complete the evaluation process, which may include additional tests and consultations. Pre-transplant evaluations may be done while hospitalized or as an outpatient. We strive to get all evaluations done in a timely manner. If there is an urgent need, often we can expedite the process.
Upon completion of the evaluation, a decision is made by the transplant team, patient and family about placement on the national organ transplant waiting list. Options for live donors are consider for all liver and kidneys. UNOS is the organization in the United States that sets the standards and policies governing organ distribution to ensure fair use of donated organs.
Pre-transplant care management is provided by the transplant team and may be coordinated with the referring physician and treatment program in the child's home community or at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin depending on the needs and health status of the child. An interdisciplinary review committee meets regularly to evaluate all transplant candidates.
Before and after transplant, the hospital's premier pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) provides 24-hour critical care coverage. The PICU is staffed by Pediatric Critical Care Intensivists with consultation available in all pediatric specialties. Not all transplant patients need this level of intensive care post transplant.
Post-transplant care management is essential for good outcomes. Comprehensive specialty support well equips Children's Hospital of Wisconsin to meet the long-term challenges of managing transplant patients. Over the years, our team members have gained invaluable experience in minimizing rejection issues while maximizing quality of life.
To ease the transition to home and normal life, the transplant team coordinates with referring physicians and treatment programs and works closely with parents, caregivers, teachers and daycare providers. |
