Expanding the living donor pool in kidney transplantation: Insights from Indian experience

Background: Kidney transplantation remains the preferred treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), offering superior survival and improved quality of life compared with long-term dialysis. However, the persistent shortage of donor organs continues to be one of the greatest challenges in transplantation. This scientific symposium will explore practical strategies to expand the living donor pool by overcoming traditional barriers to transplantation. The program is focused on three key areas: ABO-incompatible kidney transplantation, the management of highly sensitized recipients through desensitization protocols, and the optimization of induction therapy. Drawing on real-world experience from India, the faculty will highlight how advances in immunosuppression, individualized treatment approaches, and evolving transplant protocols are enabling centers to successfully increase access to kidney transplantation while maintaining favourable clinical outcomes. The session promises to offer valuable clinical insights and practical strategies that can be translated into everyday transplant practice helping bridge the gap between organ demand and availability