After the heart stops: Circulatory-death donors now supply nearly half of organs
Medical Xpress
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Donation after circulatory death, where organ donation occurs after the heart stops beating, has transitioned from a rare practice to a routine one in the United States over the past 25 years. This shift, driven by advancements in medical technology, has significantly increased the availability of organs for transplantation, helping to address the growing demand for donor organs. According to a new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, this approach now accounts for nearly half of all organ donations, marking a major milestone in the field of transplantation.
Historically, organ donation primarily relied on donations from individuals declared brain-dead but with their hearts still beating. However, advancements in surgical techniques and the ability to preserve organs after circulatory arrest have made it possible to recover viable organs from donors whose hearts have stopped. This practice, known as donation after circulatory death (DCD), involves carefully monitoring the donor’s condition and ensuring that organs are retrieved within a specific timeframe to maintain their viability for transplantation.
The rise of DCD has been supported by improved mechanical support systems, better preservation solutions, and enhanced surgical techniques, all of which have reduced the risk of organ damage. These technological advancements have made it possible to successfully transplant organs such as kidneys, livers, and lungs from donors who meet specific medical criteria. As a result, DCD has become an essential component of organ donation programs across the country.
This shift is particularly significant given the ongoing shortage of donor organs in the U.S., which leaves many patients waiting for transplants on lengthy lists. By expanding the pool of potential donors through DCD, healthcare providers can offer life-saving opportunities to more individuals in need. This practice not only helps reduce the organ shortage but also underscores the importance of innovative medical approaches in improving transplantation outcomes.
For readers interested in health and medicine, this development highlights the progress being made in organ donation and transplantation. It demonstrates how advancements in medical technology are transforming long-standing practices and saving more lives. As DCD becomes a more established part of organ donation, it offers hope to those waiting for transplants and emphasizes the critical role of science and innovation in healthcare.
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/26/2026