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Statement on Transplant Evaluations and Immunization Considerations

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

For decades, Cincinnati Children’s has been a leader in pediatric organ transplantation, specializing in heart, intestine, kidney, liver, lung, and pancreas transplants.

We approach every transplant evaluation with a focus on long-term success, guided by medical science and an unwavering commitment to patient safety.

Organ transplantation is one of the most complex procedures in medicine, requiring careful evaluation of each individual patient by a multi-disciplinary team. Our transplant team – including expert physicians, psychologists, ethicists, and social workers – conducts a thorough evaluation to determine a child’s eligibility for transplant and placement on the waiting list.

Organ donation is a profound and selfless gift from another patient and family, and the number of available organs is limited. Our responsibility is to ensure that every donated organ is used in a way that maximizes successful outcomes for children in need.

Because children who receive a transplant will be immunosuppressed for the rest of their life, vaccines play a critical role in preventing or reducing the risk of life-threatening infections, especially in the first year. These decisions involve discussion between our providers and the patient’s family.

At Cincinnati Children’s, we are committed to providing world-class, individualized care that gives every child the greatest opportunity to live their best possible life.