Outcomes of En Bloc Kidney Transplantation From Pediatric Donors: A Single-Center Experience

Abstract Background To overcome a shortage of donors, cadaveric pediatric en bloc kidneys can be used to expand the donor pool. Recent evidence shows that en bloc kidney transplantation (EBKT) has better outcomes than standard-criteria deceased adult donor kidney transplantation. We reviewed our experiences of EBKT and their outcomes. Methods From September 1996 to January 2016, 15 EBKTs were performed in Asan Medical Center. The characteristics of donors and recipients were analyzed. Graft survival was analyzed by means of serum creatinine levels. Results Nine male and 6 female donors were used. The mean age and body weight of donors was 2.79 years (range, 0.25–14) and 13.14 kg (range, 5.5–35). The mean weight of en bloc kidneys was 117.43 g (range, 36–146). Recipient median age was 39.13 years and body weight was 49.47 kg. Ureteral anastomosis was performed by means of side-to-side anastomosis and then bladder anastomosis in 9 patients and by bladder patch anastomosis in 4 patients. Serum creatinine levels at discharge and latest follow-up were 0.97 mg/dL (range, 0.7–1.54) and 0.89 mg/dL (range, 0.44–2.58). Delayed graft function developed in 3 patients and clinical rejection developed in 2 patients. We performed graftectomy on post-operative day 1 because of graft thrombosis. The rest maintained their graft function well. Graft survival was comparable with that of kidney transplantation from standard donors. Conclusions EBKT showed excellent graft function and outcomes at our center. As an approach to expand the donor pool and improve graft utilization, EBKT is acceptable and should be more widely used.