A new dextran 40-based solution for liver preservation

Area of Science:

• Transplantation science
• Organ preservation
• Surgical innovation

Background:

• The University of Wisconsin (UW) solution is the current standard for liver preservation.
• Limitations of the UW solution include organ shrinkage and reduced function after prolonged preservation.
• There is a need for improved preservation solutions to enhance long-term organ viability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel dextran-based preservation solution as an alternative to the UW solution.
• To assess the efficacy of the new solution in preventing liver weight changes and maintaining function.
• To determine if the new solution supports safe 48-hour liver preservation for transplantation.

Main Methods:

• Development of a new preservation solution using dextran, replacing hydroxyethyl starch and specific UW solution components.
• Testing the new solution in isolated perfused rabbit liver models for 24 and 48 hours.
• Evaluation of liver weight changes, total tissue water, and bile production post-preservation.

Main Results:

• Livers preserved in the UW solution showed significant weight loss (11.6-16.8%) after 24-48 hours.
• The new dextran-based solution prevented liver weight changes and maintained tissue water content.
• Bile production remained stable in the new solution group, unlike the UW solution group after 48 hours.

Conclusions:

• The novel dextran-based solution significantly improves long-term liver preservation compared to the UW solution.
• This new solution effectively prevents organ shrinkage and maintains critical liver function.
• The developed solution shows promise for safe and extended liver preservation up to 48 hours for transplantation.