[Important contribution to tissue donation and transplantation by departments of forensic medicine (DFM) in Sweden 2011-16].

The number of organ donors in Sweden is not enough to cover the need of tissues for transplant purposes. Other sources have to be defined. Young and healthy potential donors can be identified within DFM. Without precise written agreements and a well-educated and trained organization those donations will not be realized. With the purpose to evaluate national efforts to establish close cooperation between tissue establishments and DFM, two surveys were conducted at two time periods, 2011-13 and 2014-16. A total of 2118 pieces of tissue were retrieved within 6 years, 1799 for transplant purposes and 319 for research or education. Most common tissues were heart valves and cornea but also skin and ear bones were collected. 23% of all retrieved tissue from deceased donors in Sweden came from DFM. In the first period 19 % of all transplanted tissue came from DFM and in the latter period it had increased to 26%. Education and national courses for employees in DFM as well as logistic and economical support from national authorities are important factors for building a stable organization and for sustainable progress.