In this observational study, the biochemistry and perfusion characteristics of 47 high-risk and initially rejected livers were studied using normothermic machine perfusion (NMP), resulting in 22 transplantations. By using readily available measurements that could be analyzed during NMP using the Liver Assist, the authors identified specific variables associated with successful transplantation. They found that by using a combination of transaminase release, glucose metabolism, lactate clearance, and maintenance of acid-base balance, the viability of a donor liver can be assessed prior to transplantation, and that evaluation of bile pH may offer a valuable insight into bile duct integrity and the risk of post-transplant ischemic cholangiopathy.
“Liver viability during normothermic perfusion can be assessed using a combination of transaminase release, glucose metabolism, lactate clearance, and maintenance of acid-base balance.”
Watson CJ, 2018
Am J Transplant / 2018 / doi: 10.1111/ajt.14687
