Current controversies in pediatric transplantation.

Abstract

Transplantation in children has become a therapeutic option for several end stage organ diseases. The kidney, liver, and heart are the most common organs' transplanted; however, an increasing number of children are undergoing successful intestine, lung, and multiple organ transplant combinations. Through case study reports, emerging transplant options for the child experiencing end stage liver, intestine, heart, and lung failure are described. Critical care nurses play a crucial role in the postoperative recovery of these patients. An understanding of the transplant process and consequences of immunosuppression will help the critical care nurse identify signs of rejection, infection, and posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease.