Ivor Callely
Ceist:236 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health the progress, if any, which has been made for Ireland to establish its own donor bank for heart valves; the costs involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Donor Organ Bank.
I understand that the establishment of a donor bank for heart valves is a joint venture between the Blood Transfusion Service Board and the National Cardiac Surgical Centre. It is hoped that the bank will be in place from April 1993.
This new programme will utilise many resources already available at the Blood Transfusion Service Board including a microbiology laboratory and liquid nitrogen storage units. The cost per valve which will be borne by the hospitals will be £250 approximately.
I understand that there is a shortage of heart valves in this country and the establishment of this new service will alleviate difficulties and delays in treating patients in Ireland.