[The role of reperfusion damage]

Abstract

Following reperfusion of preserved organ grafts, various pathomechanisms are activated that may impair graft function and viability beyond ischemic damage. This so-called reperfusion injury includes generation of oxygen radicals, recruitment and activation of circulating inflammatory cells, and liberation of numerous mediators acting both locally and systemically. Alterations in microvascular perfusion are of central importance where further graft damage is concerned. The present review covers the current knowledge about the underlying mechanisms, the organ-specific application in the clinical setting, and the possible immunological consequences of reperfusion injury.