It is important to understand that donation after cardiac death is only considered after the family has decided to withdraw life support. After the decision to withdraw support has been made, informed consent is obtained and the patient is taken to the operating room and allowed to pass away peacefully. The organs for transplant are then surgically removed. The option of donation after cardiac death can bring comfort during a time of grief and allow a family to begin the healing process. Many families find comfort in the fact that their loved one's organs saved the life of another person.

The Donation Process After Consent

When a family consents to organ donation the New York Organ Donor Network (NYODN) coordinator contacts the national organization that allocates organs - The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) - to obtain a copy of the waiting list. The NYODN coordinator contacts the transplant centers and coordinates the entire process. Families receive general information as to where and whom received their loved one's organs. Patient confidentiality is maintained and no names or identifying information is released.

If you have any questions or comments about organ and tissue donation, please send us an e-mail at transplant@nshs.edu.