Displaying global collaboration and dedication to advancing healthcare practices, we recently hosted a Symposium titled “International Insights on Donation after Cardiocirculatory Death (DCD): Current Situation and Future Perspectives.” It was held in the Aula Magna in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Barcelona. The event drew professionals and experts from around the world to discuss and exchange knowledge on this critical aspect of donation.

Organized by DTI with the support of the following key institutions: the Societat Catalana de Trasplantament (SCT), the University of Barcelona, Hospital Clínic, and Organització Catalana de Trasplantaments (OCATT); the symposium started with representatives from these organizations who served as welcome speakers. Among them were Dr. Laura Lladó, president of SCT; Dr. Jaume Tort, Director of OCATT; and Dr. Ricard Valero, Head of Anesthesiology at Hospital Clínic.

The symposium provided a platform for each international speaker to share insights into the status of DCD in their respective regions. Dr. Martí Manyalich, President of the DTI Foundation, delivered a comprehensive overview of DCD, setting the stage for further discussions. Dr. Alejandro Niño Murcia, Past President of Sociedad de Trasplantes de América Latina y Craibe (STALyC) and Transplant Surgeon at Colombiana Trasplantes, shed light on the landscape of DCD in Latin America. Dr. John Fung, President-elect of the Transplantation Society (TTS) and Director UChicago Medicine Transplant Institute, provided valuable insights into DCD practices in the USA. Dr. Feng Huo, council member of China Organ Transplantation Development Foundation (COTDF) and Chief Expert of the General Hospital of Southern Theater Command of PLA of China, sharing experiences from China. Dr. David Paredes, Transplant Coordinator at Hospital Clínic and associate professor at the University of Barcelona, offered insights into the Spanish context of DCD. Additionally, Dr. Gabriel Oniscu, President of the European Society for OrganTransplantation (ESOT), provided a comprehensive overview of DCD practices in Europe.

Amongst the knowledge exchanged during the symposium, there was a moment of remembrance for two esteemed individuals, Dr. Paolo Muiesan and Dr. José Manuel “Pepe” García Buitrón, who had made significant contributions to the field before their passing. Dr. Chloë Ballesté and Dr. Martí Manyalich, chairs of the session, paid tribute to their passion and dedication, with Jorgina Díaz, sentimental partner of Dr. Pepe Buitrón, sharing heartfelt words in his memory. It was after this moment that the Pepe Buitrón Scholarships were officially introduced, a testament to the enduring legacy of a remarkable professional and friend.

The impact of the symposium extends beyond the symposium, as international speakers are set to participate in the 8th edition of the International Workshop on Uncontrolled & Controlled Donation After Circulatory Death in A Coruña, Spain. Moreover, participants took advantage of their time in Barcelona to visit Hospital Clínic and OCATT, gaining further insights into the DCD system in Catalonia.

In conclusion, the symposium reinforced the importance of international cooperation in tackling complex healthcare challenges and making a stronger effort to achieve better outcomes for patients worldwide.