Ochsner observes National Donate Life Month with bold innovations

Gulf South's leading transplant program honors organ donors, highlights groundbreaking innovations and celebrates a legacy of excellence

NEW ORLEANS - As April marks National Donate Life Month, the Ochsner Transplant Institute celebrates more than four decades of transforming lives through organ transplantation while showcasing recent innovations that are redefining what's possible in transplant care. Since 1984, Ochsner has performed over 9,500 life-saving transplants, establishing itself as the most active and experienced transplant center in Louisiana and across the Gulf South region. 

A legacy of excellence and innovation

Ochsner’s transplant program is renowned for its groundbreaking advancements and exceptional care, offering transplantation of organs that perform a critical function in the body — like the kidneys, liver, pancreas, heart, and lungs — for both adult and pediatric patients. Organ transplants are surgical procedures used to replace failing organs with a healthy one from a donor. Ochsner made history as the first in the Gulf South to perform a heart transplant in 1970, a kidney transplant in 1973, and a liver transplant in 1984.  

Additionally, Ochsner is home to Louisiana's only pediatric heart transplant program and the state's sole living donor liver transplant program, with 53 successful liver transplants from a live donor. Setting the standard for excellence, the kidney transplant program has earned the prestigious ELITE Status designation from INTERLINK COE Networks & Programs, recognizing its superior outcomes and ranking among the nation's very best.  

"Our commitment to transforming lives through innovative advancements in organ transplant and compassionate care for patients and their families is rooted in a legacy built by our world-class teams,” said Robert Hart, MD, chief physician executive, Ochsner Health. "Every life saved through donor generosity and every story of recovery serves as a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we innovate with purpose and come together to make a difference. This important work continues and we remain dedicated to ensuring every patient has the opportunity to live healthier, fuller lives."

Transplant innovations saving lives today

The field of transplantation medicine is undergoing a remarkable evolution, driven by cutting-edge advancements that are redefining what is possible. From state-of-the-art robotic-assisted surgical techniques to revolutionary organ preservation technologies, these innovations are transforming patient care in profound ways. Through these innovations, Ochsner is making a tangible difference, with lives saved and improved quality of care: 

• Robotic-Assisted Kidney Transplantation: Advanced minimally invasive technology enabling greater surgical precision, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery for eligible patients 
• Organ Perfusion System: Fully operational organ pumping center, the only in-house center in Louisiana, that keeps donor organs alive and functioning outside the body prior to transplantation, optimizing organ health and improving transplant outcomes—already credited with saving 28 lives in 2026 
• Living Donor Liver Transplant Program: The only active living liver transplant program in Louisiana and has completed 53 successful living donor liver transplants, providing patients with a lifesaving alternative supported by expert, compassionate care

Addressing the critical need during National Donate Life Month

National Donate Life Month, observed each April, is a time to recognize the life-saving sacrifice of organ donation and call attention to the urgent need for more courageous donors.

• More than 100,000 people nationwide are waiting for organ transplants to save their lives 
• Over 2,000 patients in Louisiana alone are on transplant waiting lists 
• One registered organ donor can save up to nine lives through organ, tissue, and cornea donation

“National Donate Life Month is a powerful reminder of the life-saving impact organ donations can have on individuals and families in need,” said Ari Cohen, MD, director for the Ochsner Transplant Institute. “Each organ donor represents hope for the future, and their selfless act is a gift beyond measure. Their contributions not only save lives but also inspire communities to come together and advocate for this critical cause. At Ochsner Transplant Institute, we remain committed to honoring these incredible gifts by delivering the highest quality of care to our transplant patients now and for years to come."

About Ochsner Transplant Institute

The Ochsner Transplant Institute is a nationally recognized leader in organ transplant surgery with a world-class team offering comprehensive programs for organs that can be donated, such as:

• Liver transplant (including pediatric and living donor programs) 
• Kidney and kidney-pancreas transplant (including living donor program) 
• Heart transplant (including pediatric program) 
• Lung transplant 
• Pancreas transplant

The Institute emphasizes a patient-centered approach with streamlined processes, shorter wait times and dedicated transplant coordinators who guide patients through every step of their journey. Ochsner's commitment to innovation is demonstrated through advanced technologies as well as through active participation in clinical research.

Learn more about the Ochsner Transplant Institute by visiting Ochsner Transplant Institute | Ochsner Health.

How to become an organ donor

Individuals interested in becoming organ donors can register at ochsner.org/save9 or through the Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency. People of all ages and medical histories can be potential donors, and one donor can save up to nine lives. To ensure your wishes are honored, consider informing your family of your decision, designating your choice on your driver’s license, and signing up with an official donor registry. Taking these steps not only reinforces your commitment to saving lives but also helps guide loved ones during critical moments.

Media contact: pr@ochsner.org

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