Survey on Organ Allocation Algorithms and Blockchain-based Systems for Organ Donation and Transplantation

摘要

Since the first successful kidney transplant in 1954, organ donation and transplantation has been an important medical treatment that improves the lives of thousands of patients who experienced organ failure(s). However, the allocation of scarce kidneys is a complex process, partially due to a significant imbalance between kidney supply and demand. To solve this issue, a number of allocation algorithms have been used and a few blockchain-based solutions have been proposed. To improve organ donation and cover more patients in need, organizations responsible for organ donation around the world are looking to combine their efforts. Nevertheless, there are still many unanswered questions. For instance, organ allocation policies and guidelines considerably differ depending on the country, and hence international regulations are needed. One of the important aspects of such regulations is the fact that the data from stakeholders and the matching patients - donors algorithm is stored in the central point of these organizations. In this short survey, we investigate existing organ allocation algorithms. The focus of this paper is on blockchain-based decentralized systems. Out of many organ donation systems, the aim of this review is on kidney allocation algorithms, this choice is justified by the fact that the kidney is one of the most in-demand organ transplants. We also discuss some limitations in exiting organ donation systems and allocation algorithms and elaborate on how blockchain technologies could be the cornerstone technology to solve some of the existing issues in the area of organ donation.