Attitudinal study of organ xenotransplantation in patients on the kidney and liver transplant waiting list in a country with a high rate of deceased donation.

摘要

BACKGROUND: The organ transplant deficit is leading to an increase in the importance of solid organ xenotransplantation. However, the use of animals for human transplantation causes a certain amount of opposition in patients and the general public. The objective of this study was to analyze the attitude of patients on the kidney and liver waiting list toward xenotransplantation and the variables affecting this attitude. METHODS: Patients on the kidney and liver waiting list (January 2003 - December 2005) were surveyed. Attitude toward xenotransplantation was assessed using a psychosocial questionnaire about the donation of organs of animal origin administered by a healthcare professional from the Transplant Unit. RESULTS: A total of 373 patients were interviewed (kidney [n=214] and liver patients [n=158]). In the case of kidney patients, if the results of xenotransplantation were as effective as those attained using human organs, 76% (n=162) would be in favor. If the results were worse, only 8% (n=17) would be in favor. Two factors affected this attitude: a high level of education (P=0.007) and a positive attitude toward organ donation upon death (P< 0.001). In the case of liver patients, 67% (n=106) would be in favor if the results of xenotransplantation were as effective as those attained using human organs, decreasing to 16% (n=25) if the results were worse. Attitude toward deceased organ donation also affected the attitude of these patients (P<0.043). CONCLUSIONS: The attitude toward xenotransplantation of patients on the kidney and liver transplant waiting list was favorable and associated with a positive attitude toward human organ donation.