The Donation and Transplantation Institute (DTI Foundation) has developed an international reference training program in donation after circulatory death, designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the clinical, technical and organizational aspects of DCD programs.

The course combines online learning with advanced face-to-face training, enabling participants not only to acquire theoretical knowledge but also to develop practical skills that can be transferred to their own clinical settings. Its approach is clearly focused on real-world implementation and on improving donation and transplantation outcomes.

In recent years, donation after circulatory death has gained increasing relevance due to its potential to expand the donor pool. In this context, specialized training is essential to ensure safe, ethical and efficient processes, as well as to incorporate advanced techniques in organ preservation and assessment.

target audience

The program is aimed at healthcare professionals involved in donation and transplantation, including intensive care, anesthesia and emergency specialists, transplant coordinators, surgeons, perfusionists, and clinical leaders or managers interested in developing or strengthening DCD programs.

methodology

The course follows a blended format combining live online sessions with an intensive on-site phase.

The online component introduces key concepts and fosters discussion, while the face-to-face phase focuses on hands-on training through simulation, technical workshops and case-based learning. This approach promotes active learning and supports skill development in highly realistic environments.

content

The program covers the full DCD pathway from a comprehensive perspective:

  • international overview of DCD
  • controlled and uncontrolled DCD
  • withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment
  • death diagnosis
  • cannulation and technical aspects
  • normothermic regional perfusion (NRP)
  • organ assessment
  • surgical recovery
  • preservation and ex vivo perfusion

It also addresses key elements such as communication with families, identification of barriers and analysis of outcomes, supporting effective program implementation across different healthcare contexts.

international dimension

The course brings together participants and faculty from multiple countries, creating a collaborative learning environment that promotes exchange of experiences, comparative analysis and professional networking.

scholarships and accessibility

DTI Foundation promotes the Pepe Buitrón Scholarships to support the participation of professionals from low- and middle-income countries, covering tuition and accommodation. This initiative reinforces DTI’s commitment to equity and international cooperation.

impact

Through this program, DTI Foundation consolidates an advanced training platform aimed at transforming knowledge into clinical practice, strengthening DCD programs and expanding transplantation opportunities worldwide.