Organ Preservation Techniques Flashcards

Which component of University of Wisconsin (UW) solution is responsible for preventing cell swelling during cold ischemia?

Answer: Hydroxyethyl starch

Hydroxyethyl starch is the impermeant colloid in UW solution that prevents cell swelling by maintaining oncotic pressure.

During normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) of the liver, which parameter best indicates adequate cellular metabolism?

Answer: Perfusate lactate clearance

Lactate clearance during NMP reflects hepatocyte metabolic activity and is a key viability marker.

What is the primary rationale for using pulsatile flow rather than continuous flow in hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP) of kidneys?

Answer: It better mimics physiological conditions and reduces vascular resistance

Pulsatile flow in HMP mimics the cardiac cycle, reduces vascular resistance, and improves nutrient delivery to renal tissue.

Which enzyme system is most critically impaired when ATP is depleted during warm ischemia?

Answer: Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase pump

The Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase pump requires ATP to maintain ion gradients; its failure leads to cell swelling and irreversible injury.

In pancreas preservation, what is the maximum recommended cold ischemia time to optimize islet cell viability?

Answer: 12 hours

Cold ischemia time for pancreas preservation should ideally not exceed 12 hours to maintain islet cell function.

Which preservation solution additive acts as a free radical scavenger to reduce reperfusion injury?

Answer: Glutathione

Glutathione is an antioxidant included in UW solution that scavenges free radicals generated during reperfusion.

During ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP), which fluid is typically used as the perfusate base?

Answer: Steen Solution

Steen Solution is the standard EVLP perfusate, providing oncotic pressure and electrolyte balance to support lung function assessment.