accomplishments of modern medicine. Unfortunately, the ability to deliver this medical miracle is limited by a severe and steadily worsening shortage of organs [1]. According to the United Network for Organ Sharing, as of 31 March 1996, more than 45 000 persons in the United States were on the national waiting list for transplantation [2]; this list grows by several hundred each month. It is estimated that eight of these people will die each day while waiting for transplantation [3]. Even more tragic is the realization that many of these deaths are preventable. Because only about 40% of potential cadaveric organ donors become actual donors, large numbers of life-saving organs are continuously being lost [4]. Clearly, something is wrong with our current organ procurement system.