On January 22, 2025, doctors at the University Clinic of the
Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University (KazNMU) successfully performed a remarkable corneal transplant surgery, giving two patients a new chance at better vision. The donor corneas were harvested from a deceased 55-year-old man, whose family made the generous decision to donate his organs and save multiple lives.
The surgeries were conducted as part of a masterclass for local ophthalmologists and medical residents, offering them an opportunity to learn advanced surgical techniques in corneal transplantation. Marat Suleimenov, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at KazNMU, explained the significance of this case, highlighting the rarity of local donors. “Unfortunately, since 2015, we have had limited access to donor materials due to a lack of public awareness and the reluctance to give consent for organ donation,” Suleimenov said. He emphasized that this successful procedure was a result of the family’s willingness to donate not only the corneas but also the heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs. These additional organ transplants were carried out in collaboration with the Kazakh Research Institute of Cardiology and Internal Diseases and the A.N. Syzganov National Scientific Center of Surgery. Through their decision, the donor’s family contributed to saving several lives.
Currently, Kazakhstan faces a significant shortage of donor materials, forcing local clinics to rely on imported corneas from the United States. This situation has made it difficult to meet the growing demand for transplants. As Suleimenov pointed out, nearly 1,000 patients in Kazakhstan are currently in need of corneal transplants, 25% of whom are children. The surgeries performed with local donor organs highlighted the importance of raising awareness about organ donation within the country.
The masterclass provided during the surgeries not only helped the patients but also played a key role in training local medical professionals. By observing the procedures firsthand, ophthalmologists and residents gained valuable experience that will allow them to apply these techniques independently in the future. This training is seen as a crucial step in improving the overall level of ophthalmic care and reducing reliance on foreign expertise.
The successful transplants would not have been possible without the ongoing support of the Qazaqstan Khalqyna Foundation, which has played a vital role in funding similar procedures. To date, the foundation has helped facilitate 243 corneal transplants, providing many patients with the gift of restored vision. However, much work remains, as the current demand far exceeds the number of available donor organs.
Organ donation in Kazakhstan is still a sensitive issue, with many families hesitant to give consent due to a lack of awareness or cultural beliefs. Medical professionals and public health advocates are calling for comprehensive public awareness campaigns to address these issues and encourage more families to consider donation. By educating the population on the life-saving potential of organ transplants, they hope to create a culture of acceptance and cooperation.
This recent case also demonstrated the efficiency of Kazakhstan’s medical system in coordinating organ transplants across multiple institutions. The seamless collaboration between different hospitals ensured that the donated organs were quickly allocated to patients in critical need, maximizing their impact. It also showcased the country’s potential to expand its organ transplant program through increased public participation.
KazNMU Rector Marat Shoranov emphasized the importance of such partnerships and innovative practices for the future of Kazakhstan’s healthcare system. He noted that collaboration with international organizations and local initiatives would help improve both the quality and accessibility of medical services. Shoranov expressed hope that the success of this case would inspire more families to give consent for organ donation and help close the gap between the number of patients in need and the availability of donor organs.
The recent corneal transplant surgeries serve as a powerful example of how organ donation can save lives and improve the quality of life for many individuals. The two patients who received new corneas now have the chance to restore their vision and lead more fulfilling lives. At the same time, the other recipients of the donor’s heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs have received life-saving transplants, highlighting the profound impact of one family’s decision.
As Kazakhstan continues to develop its organ transplant capabilities, medical professionals remain optimistic that increased public awareness, ongoing support from organizations like the Qazaqstan Khalqyna Foundation, and improved training for local doctors will lead to a more sustainable and effective transplant system. The hope is that, in the future, cases like this will become more common, ensuring that those in need of transplants can receive timely and life-changing medical interventions. The success of this operation is a step toward that vision, demonstrating the power of organ donation to create new beginnings.
