Graft protection in organ transplantation

Preserving donor organs in optimal condition is a prerequisite for successful transplantation. The donor organ is subjected to a multitude of stresses. In this review, we will discuss the consequences of brain death on donor organs. The effects of an extended ischaemic period followed by the reperfusion necessary for the harvest, storage and implantation of transplant organs will be evaluated. As progressively more is known about the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, focused and efficient therapeutic interventions can be developed. We will review current organ protection techniques and look at possible future strategies to further improve the final donor organ quality.