Rising Contributions in Skin and Bone Donations 2025

Growth in Donations

Rising Contributions in Skin and Bone Donations 2025: Skin and bone donations in Tamil Nadu have shown steady growth over the last three years. According to the Transplant Authority of Tamil Nadu (Transtan), there were 16 skin donations in 2022, rising to 23 in 2023, and further increasing to 77 in 2024. In 2025 alone, 36 skin donations have already been recorded.

Similarly, bone donations have risen from 50 in 2022 to 57 in 2023, and 111 in 2024. As of 2025, the state has already recorded 80 bone donations, reflecting a strong trend of donor awareness.

Static GK fact: India passed the Transplantation of Human Organs Act in 1994 to regulate organ donations and transplants.

Role of Skin and Bone Banks

Skin is usually harvested from the chest and thighs of deceased donors. After retrieval, it is fully dressed and processed to prevent infection. The donated skin is preserved in skin banks, where it can be stored for up to five years for future use.

Static GK Tip: The first skin bank in India was established in 2000 at Lokmanya Tilak Municipal General Hospital in Mumbai.

Bone donations are equally significant. Donated bones are stored in specialized facilities, where they are processed and preserved for orthopedic surgeries. They are commonly used in trauma care, joint replacement, and reconstructive procedures.

Institutions Leading the Effort

The Government Kilpauk Medical College (KMC) Hospital in Chennai has established a full-fledged skin bank. This facility plays a crucial role in treating burn patients, offering life-saving support through timely access to preserved skin.

Other hospitals in Tamil Nadu are also being encouraged to strengthen transplant-related infrastructure. The role of Transtan in coordinating these donations has been vital in ensuring fair distribution and transparent tracking of donated tissues.

Static GK fact: Tamil Nadu is often ranked as one of the top states in India for organ donation due to its robust infrastructure and awareness programs.

Importance for Healthcare

Skin grafts are critical for treating severe burn injuries, which are common in India due to domestic accidents and industrial mishaps. Bone grafts support complex surgeries, reduce recovery time, and improve patient outcomes.

Awareness campaigns, donor registration drives, and hospital-based programs are further boosting contributions. With Tamil Nadu’s leadership, India is moving closer to building a reliable system of tissue donations alongside organ transplants.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Rising Contributions in Skin and Bone Donations 2025: