Organ Donation
By: Grant Huang and Amit Benedict
Organ Donation
“Organ donation is the process of giving an organ or a part of an organ for the purpose of transplantation into another person. In order for a person to become an organ donor, blood and oxygen must flow through the organs until the time of recovery to ensure viability.”
Who can be a donor?
People of all ages should consider themselves potential donors. When an individual dies, they are evaluated for donor suitability given their current and past medical history as well as their age. The Organ Procurement Agency determines medical suitability for donation.
What organs can you donate?
Up to 25 different organs and tissues can be donated for transplantation. Transplantable organs include the heart, kidneys, liver, lungs, pancreas, and small intestines. Transplantable tissues include blood, blood vessels, bones, bone marrow, cartilage, connective tissues, eyes, heart valves, and skin.
How many lives can be saved?
One organ donor can save up to eight lives. The same donor can also save or improve the lives of up to 50 people by donating tissues and eyes. More than 120,000 people in the United States are waiting for organ transplants. Solid Organs: Hearts, kidneys, pancreases, lungs, livers and intestines.
The Man and the Dog - Organ Donation Spot - Touching