Abstract

In this paper Professor Calne pleads for a more informed approach to the problem of donor transplants, particularly in cases of kidney disease. He is concerned to inform both the medical profession and lay people. Establishing a computerized register of names and addresses of those who do not wish to have their organs used for transplantation after death would allow enquiries to be made immediately after death.

The second point of emphasis is that death of the brain is the death of the individual. A code of practice is suggested which should be followed in all transplantation centres and would allay the fears of the public and encourage the cooperation of doctors.