Related Experiment Videos
Hepatic support with hepatocyte suspensions in a permeable membrane dialyzer
Surgery
|November 1, 1977
Summary
This study introduces a novel extracorporeal liver support system using circulating hepatocytes and a membrane. This innovative approach demonstrated significant neurologic improvements in anhepatic pigs, offering a promising new avenue for liver support.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Hepatology
- Artificial Organs
Background:
- Current hepatic support methods (whole liver, liver slice, hepatocyte perfusion) are insufficient.
- Need for effective extracorporeal liver support (ELS) to manage liver failure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel ELS concept utilizing circulating hepatocytes and a membrane.
- To assess the efficacy of this system in anhepatic animal models.
Main Methods:
- Nineteen dialysis experiments were conducted using a membrane hemodialysis unit.
- Hepatocytes circulated on one side of a cuprophan membrane, with blood from an anhepatic pig on the other.
- Pyruvate metabolism and oxygen utilization were measured.
Main Results:
- Pyruvate metabolism and oxygen utilization were comparable to established liver cell perfusion methods.
- Five out of six anhepatic pigs receiving late hepatic support showed neurologic improvement.
- One pig exhibited concurrent improvement in electroencephalographic (EEG) results.
Conclusions:
- The described membrane hemodialysis unit with circulating hepatocytes is a highly suitable ELS.
- The system's simplicity facilitates repeated and prolonged use.
- This approach shows potential for improving outcomes in liver failure patients.