At present in the UK the following organs and tissue can be donated for transplant:

Liver                Kidney                 P ancreas                Heart

Lung (s)          Small bowel        Skin                          Heart valves 

Bone              Corneas              Tendons

Costal cartilage (part of ribs)  & iliac crest (part of pelvis)

Meniscus (part of knee joint)

Who carries out the operation to retrieve the organs and tissue?
One or two teams of surgeons will retrieve the organs to be transplanted. The Transplant Co-ordinator will remain with the patient in theatre. The operation is carried out with great care and respect for the donor. Tissue is retrieved the following day.

Will the body be disfigured?
No, but there will be a wound. This will be carefully stitched and covered by a dressing as well as a gown or clothes. You will then be able to see your loved one.

How long does the operation take?
The retrieval operation takes approximately four to six hours. You may wish to go home during this time. You may want to stay at the hospital, possibly visiting the hospital chapel or prayer room.

Can I spend time with my loved one?
You will be able to spend time with your loved one on Intensive Care before the retrieval operation.

Can I see my loved one’s body?
You may see your loved one’s body after the operation in the chapel or mortuary viewing room. In some hospitals you will be invited to help perform the last offices - the washing and dressing of your loved one’s body. Many will also take a lock of hair, hand and footprints for you. You may wish to think about these options and discuss them with your co-ordinator.

Can I have a blessing or prayers said on the ward?
You may wish your loved one to receive a ceremony of blessing, the sacrament of the sick or for prayers to be said. This can be arranged by the hospital chaplaincy or you may contact your own minister or Chaplain.

Can I agree to donate some organs and not others?
Yes, if that is your wish and you feel if would meet the wishes of your loved one. Donation is unconditional, you cannot put conditions on who the organs will or will not go to. You may wish to discuss this further with your transplant co-ordinator.