Smart algorithm by Erasmus Q Intelligence enables 50 percent more kidney transplants

Kristiaan Glorie, econometrician and Director of Erasmus Q Intelligence, led the development of the algorithm. ‘Erasmus Q Intelligence translates academic knowledge into societal applications,’ he explains. ‘In this case, we use mathematics and IT to solve the allocation challenge of donor–recipient kidney pairs. The way in which exchanges are organised turns out to be crucial: with the new algorithm, the number of transplants can increase by nearly 50 percent, and for hard-to-match patients even by up to 200 percent.’

Quantitative intelligence with social impact

The Cross-over+ programme is an extension of the existing national system that matches donor–recipient pairs who are medically incompatible, by means of smart exchange constructions. By integrating all existing techniques, such as transplants across blood group barriers and the inclusion of altruistic donors into one model, the algorithm calculates the most effective combinations.

Glorie emphasises that behind the success of Cross-over+ lie advanced mathematical models, but that the real strength comes from close collaboration with medical professionals. ‘The key is to make complex mathematics both applicable and understandable. By working closely with nephrologists and transplant coordinators, we were able to fine-tune our models to the realities of hospital practice.’

With the nationwide implementation of Cross-over+, the Netherlands is set to become a global frontrunner in applying quantitative intelligence to healthcare, a prime example of how data science can save lives.