Transplant professionals vary in the long-term medical risks they communicate to potential living kidney donors: an international survey

Background. Discussing long-term medical risks with potential living donors is a vital aspect of informed consent. We considered whether there are global practice variations in the information communicated to potential living kidney donors. Methods. Transplant professionals participated in a survey to determine which long- term risks are communicated to potential living kidney donors. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed in person and by electronic mail. Results. We surveyed 203 practitioners from 119 cities in 35 different countries. Sixty-three percent of participants were nephrologists, and 27% were surgeons. Risks of hypertension, proteinuria or kidney failure requiring dialysis were frequently discussed ( usually over 80% of practitioners discussed each medical condition). However, many practitioners do not believe these risks are increased after donation, with surgeons being less convinced of long- term sequelae compared with nephrologists ( P < 0.01). About 30% of practitioners discuss long- term risks of premature cardiovascular disease or death with potential donors. Conclusions. Transplant professionals vary in the long-term risks they communicate to potential donors. Improving consensus will enhance decision-making, and emphasize best practices which maintain good, long- term donor health.