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.