History of the BTS
Organ transplantation, for centuries an almost unachievable aspiration, became a reality in 1954 when the first successful kidney transplant was performed by Joseph Murray in Boston.
The stimulus of that success and its consequences led in 1971 to the creation of the British Transplantation Society, (BTS) whose objective is to promote transplantation in all its forms.
The science and practice of transplantation have expanded greatly since its early days, with much improved outcomes and many advances in treatment.
The downloadable ‘The History of the British Transplantation Society’ by James Douglas, tells the story of the society from its beginning.
It also outlines the processes by which transplantation first became possible and the ways in which it has expanded, thanks to the skill and dedication of many individuals and the selfless altruism of organ donors and relatives. These are ongoing stories, which will evolve with time and improving knowledge, for which there is still a great need.
It is hoped that the history will prove interesting to BTS members, students of transplantation and other readers, whose comments and suggestions for additions and improvements are welcome.
Previous Honorary Members, Chairmen and Presidents of the BTS
Choose previous Members and Chairmen / Presidents to view below
The Early History of the Treatment of Renal Failure by Haemodialysis and Transplantation in the UK – A Memoir by John Hopewell
Before 1960 there was virtually no treatment for the common problem of end-stage renal failure in the United Kingdom. By 1970 every region had a unit capable of treating it by haemodialysis and transplantation, which have continued as complementary treatments to the present time.
This development, a notable and rapid advance in clinical practice, deserves historical record. Read the full memoir by John Hopewell.
“Our membership is open to everyone working professionally in the field of transplantation, whatever your role. It includes clinicians from a wide range of specialities, basic scientists, scientists working in Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics, nurses, donor coordinators, professions allied to medicine and ethicists and more.”
“The BTS is actively involved in developing national policy; commenting to the media on all issues relating to organ donation and transplantation; and, of course, developing the scientific, clinical and ethical practices that we all work to on a daily basis.”
