Kennisdossier
Innovation Knowledge Dossier
Read more about (inter)national research and innovation in the field of donation and transplantation.
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Together with our partners, we contribute to (inter)national research and innovation. Read the fascinating practical examples and take a look into the future.
Research focuses on generating knowledge and new insights. This knowledge is translated into innovative and practical applications that are of value to the donation and transplantation field.
Practical examples
Research and innovation are primarily possible through intensive (inter)national collaboration. Good examples are the national aNRP study, the implementation of DCD heart donation, and the Cross-over+ project.
Dutch aNRP study
With aNRP (Abdominal Normothermic Regional Perfusion), it is possible to keep abdominal organs better suited for transplantation than with the usual cold perfusion outside the body.
A national randomized study by the 3 liver centers in the Netherlands is comparing both methods. The NTS is a discussion partner and coordinates this research in close collaboration with the centers, the National Health Care Institute (Zorginstituut Nederland), and the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS).More about the study
DCD heart donation
A few years ago, DCD heart donation was introduced in the Netherlands. This introduction led to a sharp increase in the number of heart transplants, which is good news for patients waiting for a donor heart.
Close collaboration between Erasmus MC, UMCU, and UMCG ensured that the new technique was implemented efficiently. The NTS had a coordinating role in this process.
Cross-over+
The Cross-over+ project is working on an improved cross-over program with a new algorithm that increases the chance of a suitable donor for difficult-to-match patients, such as people with many antibodies or a long waiting time. The NTS is bundling existing programs into one nationally coordinated system.
Opportunities for the future
Innovations in the world of donation and transplantation are following one another at a rapid pace. Read the vision of two professionals on key breakthroughs:
The future of donation and transplantation
Machine perfusion, the use of AI, tissue culture, and xenotransplantation are creating fascinating possibilities. Transplant surgeon Jeroen de Jonge outlines the opportunities for the future.
New opportunities in the treatment of organ failure
Nephrologist Ton Rabelink is an expert in the field of regenerative medicine. He shares more about new techniques for repairing tissues and other breakthroughs.
“Xenotransplantation is ethically complex, but could represent a breakthrough for patients who currently cannot find a donor organ.”
Xenotransplantation
Xenotransplantation is the transplanting of cells, tissues, or organs from animals to humans. This could be a solution to the shortage of donor organs.
Tissue culture
Injecting cultured endothelial cells onto the inner layer of the cornea is an innovative technique that is promising for patients with eye problems.
Data and AI
Collaborating with data
The NTS encourages the smart use of data science and artificial intelligence (AI). With dashboards and the development of a secure and legally well-regulated data platform, we help professionals make choices and improve processes.
Use of AI in kidney transplantation
With data science and artificial intelligence, we improve predictions and optimize processes after a transplant. In this way, we reduce risks and increase the chance of success.
National collaboration
The NTS facilitates innovations that are submitted via the national committees. The National Advisory Committee for Donation and Transplantation Innovation (LADTI) advises on cross-organ innovations in the organ donation and transplantation chain.
The LADTI schedules and prioritizes promising (inter)national innovations and advises the organ advisory committees on the coordination of these developments, their added value, and practical feasibility.
The NTS safeguards the national interest and support throughout the entire chain. We provide project support, assist with (national) rollout, and ensure organizational prerequisites, such as finances and transport.
Research
Research is the foundation for developing innovations. NTS researchers contribute to (inter)national studies and publications.
