PRODUÇÃO DOS BANCOS DE TECIDO OCULAR HUMANO DO BRASIL: ESTUDO ECOLÓGICO DE AGREGADOS INSTITUCIONAIS

Abstract

Introduction: The cornea is essential for vision, and transplantation is the primary solution for irreversible cases of impairment. Although Brazil is a global leader in transplants, it faces challenges due to logistical, operational, and socioeconomic barriers that affect the distribution of corneas and the waiting time for transplants. This study analyzed the production of Human Eye Tissue Banks (HETBs) in Brazil in 2023, aiming to identify factors influencing the procurement, preservation, and discard of corneas, as well as regional disparities in transplant efficiency. Methodology: This is an ecological study of institutional aggregates, focusing on the production of Human Eye Tissue Banks in Brazil in 2023. The data were obtained from the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) evaluation report on the production of 46 active HETBs distributed across Brazil's five regions in 2023. Variables analyzed included the number of screened donors, preserved corneas, corneas provided for transplantation, and disqualified tissues. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were conducted, using absolute frequencies, prevalence rates, and correlation tests. Four indicators were calculated: donor-to-transplant conversion rate, cornea preservation and supply efficiency, and cornea discard coefficient. Results: The Southeast region had the highest volume of preserved corneas (58.45%) but also the highest donor disqualification rates (40.39%). In contrast, the North region, despite lower production, showed the highest conversion rate of screened donors to transplants (23.96%). Conclusion: Regional disparities in infrastructure and resources directly impact the efficiency of HETBs, highlighting the need for investments, training, and educational campaigns to increase cornea procurement and reduce discard rates. This research emphasizes the importance of public policies that promote equitable access to corneal transplants in Brazil.