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Review
. 2018;5(1):104-110.
doi: 10.1007/s40472-018-0186-9. Epub 2018 Feb 27.

Normothermic Machine Preservation of the Liver: State of the Art

Carlo D L Ceresa  1 , David Nasralla  1 , Wayel Jassem  2
Affiliations
Review

Normothermic Machine Preservation of the Liver: State of the Art

Carlo D L Ceresa et al. Curr Transplant Rep. 2018.

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review aims to introduce the concept of normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) and its role in liver transplantation. By discussing results from recent clinical studies and highlighting the potential opportunities provided by this technology, we aim to provide a greater insight into NMP and the role it can play to enhance liver transplantation.

Recent findings: NMP has recently been shown to be both safe and feasible in liver transplantation and has also demonstrated its superiority to traditional cold storage in terms of early biochemical liver function. Through the ability to perform a viability assessment during preservation and extend preservation times, it is likely that an increase in organ utilisation will follow. NMP may facilitate the enhanced preservation with improved outcomes from donors after cardiac death and steatotic livers. Furthermore, it provides the exciting potential for liver-directed therapeutic interventions.

Summary: Evidence to date suggests that NMP facilitates the enhanced preservation of liver grafts with improved early post-transplant outcomes. The key role for this technology is to increase the number and quality of liver grafts available for transplantation and to reduce waiting list deaths.

Keywords: Ischaemia reperfusion injury; Liver transplantation; Normothermic machine perfusion; Organ utilisation.

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Conflict of interest statement

Compliance with Ethical StandardsCarlo Ceresa and David Nasralla have received consultancy income from OrganOx Ltd. for assisting with the testing of the normothermic liver perfusion device and for carrying out normothermic organ preservation out-of-hours. Wayel Jassem declares no conflict of interest.This article does not contain any studies with human or animal subjects performed by any of the authors.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Schematic representation of OrganOx metra circuit
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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