A simple technique for multiorgan preservation

A simple technique for multiorgan preservation with no ischemic time was developed. In five mongrel dogs, the heart and lungs were separated and removed with the liver, pancreas, kidneys, and a small portion of intestine en bloc while they were being self-perfused. A respirator was used for oxygenation. Arterial and venous blood pressures were measured by indwelling catheters. Fresh blood, glucose, electrolytes, mannitol, prednisolone, and a fat emulsion (Soyacal) were infused through the portal vein. The organs were experimentally perfused for 12 hours. Aortic systolic pressure ranged from 75 to 125 mm Hg, central venous pressure from 0 to 5 mm Hg, portal venous pressure from 0 to 3 mm Hg, bile output from 5 to 20 ml/hr, urine output from 10 to 70 ml/hr, and hematocrit value from 35% to 55%. The heart and lungs were normal and physiologically functional during the preservation time. The pancreas and small intestine appeared normal. Three of the livers showed some congestion. The kidney in one organ block appeared to have some edematous swelling after 16 hours. The technique for multiorgan preservation presented here is simple and effective. The preliminary data are encouraging and suggest further evaluation.