Organ transplantation logistics: a case for Turkey

Abstract

Logistics is one of the key elements of organ transplantation operations. In this study, maximizing the potential compatible donor–recipient matches within the cold ischemia time bounds (duration that an organ can survive without blood supply) is the main problem that is addressed. While addressing this problem, the effects of clustering structures on the potential organ matches are investigated. We analyze Turkey’s organ transplantation logistics structure based on its dynamics and provide new mathematical models for maximizing potential-weighted intra-regional organ transplantation flow via evaluating different types of transportation modes while meeting the specified time bounds. This approach considers only maximizing the potential flow within a single time bound, so that it may not perform effectively for every organ type. To remedy this situation, another mathematical model that maximizes the potential flow of multiple organ types has also been developed. Additionally, in order to evaluate the performance of our results, using the outputs of the deterministic mathematical models, we developed a simulation model to mimic the uncertain environment realistically while being able to model the components of hierarchical systems. Extensive computational analysis using a variety of performance measures has revealed that Turkey’s organ transplantation network can be improved by re-clustering.