Pakistan remains the preferred destination for renal transplant amongst Omanis, a study conducted by The Royal Hospital has found. This was discussed at an event held on Sunday in relation to raising awareness on organ donation, at the premises of the Directorate General of Medical Services in the Diwan of Royal Court. 

The event was attended by H H Dr Khoula Julanda al Said, senior consultant, paediatric gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition in The Royal Hospital, Dr Issa al Salmi, head of renal services at The Royal Hospital and others.

Fatma al Rahbi, a nephrology nurse in The Royal Hospital and one of the speakers in the event said that China, Pakistan Iran, Egypt, Iraq and India remain the countries of preference for renal transplants.

'Fifty-five per cent of our participants in the study got their renal transplants done in Pakistan. The reasons for preferring Pakistan was that it is cheaper than getting it done in China. There is easy access to the airport, there is no shortage of commercial donors and there is proximity between both the countries.'

H H Dr Khoula, who deliberated in regard to liver transplant, said, 'Oman should have its own organ transplant programme with its own specialists and a multi-speciality organ transplant hospital. Establishing a sustainable liver transplant programme within the country has started. We have to build our own capabilities on the transplant programme. We must have a multi-organ transplant hospital where all the transplants can take place.'

Organ transplantation is often the only treatment for end state organ failure, such as liver and heart failure.

Although end stage renal disease patients can be treated through other renal replacement therapies, kidney transplantation is generally accepted as the best treatment both for the quality of life and cost effectiveness. Kidney transplantation is by far the most frequently carried out transplantation globally.

Kidney donation by well selected living donors with good health coverage carries negligible risks.

This can only be ensured through rigorous selection procedures, careful surgical nephrectomy and follow up of the donor to ensure the optimal management of untoward consequences. Fatma concluded by saying, 'If you have a chance to save a life then do not hesitate to donate organs.'

The event was supported by Khimji Training Institute and Aster al Raffah Hospital.

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