In Episode 9 of 'In Safe Hands', host Caroline Verdon delves into the intricate and rarely discussed topic of limb donation, crucial for hand transplants. The episode features insights from Andrew Mawson Lees, an organ donation specialist nurse, who explains the complexities involved in determining eligibility for organ and limb donation, and the emotional and procedural challenges faced by the donor families. The discussion also covers the misconceptions about the process, the rarity of suitable donors, and the profound impact on recipients. Listeners also get a preview of an upcoming story featuring John-Paul McGrail, whose life was transformed by a hand transplant following a chance encounter at work.

Produced by Under the Mast, this episode discusses the intricacies and emotional challenges of limb donation . The podcast is presented by Caroline Verdon

You can find out more about hand and upper limb transplants at LEEDS TEACHING HOSPITALS NHS TRUST here

00:00 Introduction to Leeds Hand Transplant Team

00:35 Understanding Limb Donation

01:54 Eligibility and Misconceptions

03:46 The Emotional Impact on Families

04:54 Navigating Difficult Conversations

06:09 The Donation Process

08:06 Challenges and Rarity of Limb Donation

14:52 The Surgical Procedure

20:16 Meeting the Recipients

22:55 Preview of Next Episode