Comparative analysis of in situ versus ex situ perfusion on micro circulation in liver procurement--an experimental trial in a porcine model.

The Achilles heel of liver transplantation remains the biliary system. The crucial step for liver preservation is effective rinsing and perfusion of the peribiliary plexus (PBP). Due to the physiology of the vascular tree, it seems almost impossible to achieve the necessary physiologic ranges of pressure and flow by the in situ perfusion technique. We investigated the role of additional ex situ perfusion via the hepatic artery in this animal model.Fifteen German Landrace pigs underwent standardized multiorgan procurement. In situ perfusion and additional ex situ perfusion were performed consecutively. Meanwhile the external pressure applied to the perfusion system was increased stepwise. To…