Medical laboratory tests and their relationship to organ transplant and donation results in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Yaser M Kattoah Sr., Saudi Arabia

KIDNEY TRANSPLANT COORDINATOR
NEPHROLOGY
MILITARY HOSPITAL - ALHADA

Biography

Yaser Kattoah – Professional Biography

Yaser Kattoah currently serves as the Administrative Kidney Transplant Coordinator in the Department of Nephrology at the Armed Forces Hospital in Taif, Saudi Arabia. Prior to this role, he spent over 12 years as an Administrative Organ Transplant Coordinator at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Jeddah.

He began his career in the healthcare sector at the Saudi German Hospital in Jeddah, where he served in an administrative role for seven years, gaining significant experience in hospital operations and patient services.

Yaser earned his Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies with honors from Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, in 2012. He also received a Diploma in Hospital Management and Healthcare in 1997 from the College of Administration at the Makkah Chamber of Commerce.

In 2007, he was awarded the Transplant Procurement Management Diploma from the Institute for Lifelong Learning – University of Barcelona, Spain, enhancing his expertise in organ transplant coordination.

Yaser has authored more than four scientific research papers addressing the challenges of organ donation and transplantation in Saudi Arabia, offering national-level solutions that have gained widespread recognition. His impactful contributions have earned him memberships in prestigious international organizations, including the Transplantation Society (TTS) and the International Society for Organ Donation and Procurement (ISODP).

In recognition of his accomplishments, Yaser was appointed as a member of the Saudi National Committee for Organ Transplant Coordinators. In 2007, he received a Travel Grant Award from ISODP for his participation in the project “Improving Consent via Patient Support Groups”, which he presented in Philadelphia, USA.

In addition to his professional and academic achievements, Yaser is actively involved in volunteer work through the “X” platform (formerly Twitter), where he provides guidance and emotional support to patients with organ failure. His efforts in raising awareness, connecting patients with care, and offering compassionate advice have earned him appreciation and praise from patients, families, and respected national figures, solidifying his position as a trusted and inspiring advocate for organ donation.

Moreover, Yaser has participated in over 16 international conferences on organ donation and transplantation, serving as an experienced speaker and expert panelist. He is among the few transplant coordinators in the Middle East with such a distinguished record of global engagement and scientific contribution. His presence at these events underscores his leadership and deep commitment to advancing ethical practices and public awareness in the field of organ transplantation.

Yaser continues to work on several new research projects aimed at addressing ongoing challenges in the field of organ donation and transplantation within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This comes from his strong belief in the Vision 2030 of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince. He is confident that, with God's help and the unwavering support of the government, this vision will be achieved—because the government firmly believes that citizens are the foundation of national development, and that investing in people is the key to building a thriving economy, a vibrant society, and an ambitious nation.

Abstract

Medical laboratory tests and their relationship to organ transplant and donation results in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Yaser Kattoah1.

1Nephrology, Military Hospital, Taif, Saudi Arabia

Background: Organ transplantation represents a life-saving intervention, but its success relies heavily on the accuracy and efficiency of medical laboratory tests. These tests are critical for verifying donor-recipient compatibility and detecting potential infections or immune rejection risks.
Objective: This study aimed to examine the role of medical laboratory testing in improving organ transplantation outcomes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, focusing on laboratory efficiency, quality standards, and the awareness of healthcare professionals.
Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured electronic questionnaire distributed to 2,820 healthcare workers, including laboratory technicians, physicians, and practitioners across Saudi Arabia. The survey covered laboratory practices, staff training, testing protocols, and the perceived impact on transplant results.
Results: Findings revealed strong consensus on the necessity of comprehensive and accurate laboratory testing. Over 94% of participants agreed that efficient laboratory practices reduce organ rejection rates and improve transplantation success. Participants also emphasized the importance of continuous training, up-to-date equipment, and standardized testing protocols across hospitals. Delays in test reporting and lack of unified procedures were cited as significant challenges.
Conclusion: The study concludes that improving laboratory quality, adopting international standards, and investing in staff training are essential to enhancing transplant success rates. These improvements can support national efforts to boost public confidence in organ donation and align with Saudi Arabia’s healthcare development goals.

Email: info@2025.isodp.org
514-874-1717