Cunningham, Paul R. G.Foil, M. Beth2010-11-102011-05-172010-11-102011-05-171990-11Journal of the National Medical Association; 82:11 p. 769-771http://hdl.handle.net/10342/3002The number of satisfactory vascular organs suitable for organ transplantation can be increased appreciably by a close working relationship between traumatologists and transplant surgeons. Benefits will derive from more precise and rapid field management of braininjured patients, with subsequent appropriate stabilization. If brain death is declared, prompt referral for organ donation with optimal management should result in well-functioning organs for transplantation. A defined team approach with well-defined protocols could solve most of the medical and moral dilemmas. Compassionate emotional support should be provided for families, particularly minorities, and should extend to inexperienced staff. Underlying these goals are a strong institutional commitment to staff education and an understanding of the lifesaving role that organ transplantation can play. suitable for organ transplantation can be increased appreciably by a close working relationship between traumatologists and transplant surgeons. Benefits will derive from more precise and rapid field management of braininjured patients, with subsequent appropriate stabilization. If brain death is declared, prompt referral for organ donation with optimal management should result in well-functioning organs for transplantation. A defined team approach with well-defined protocols could solve most of the medical and moral dilemmas. Compassionate emotional support should be provided for families, particularly minorities, and should extend to inexperienced staff. Underlying these goals are a strong institutional commitment to staff education and an understanding of the lifesaving role that organ transplantation can play.en-USPermission granted by author to Kent Nixon Myers to upload this article on 10/25/2010.Organ transplantTrauma surgeonOrgan donationArticlePMC2626942