Research

Perfusion Machine Research - 2011

We are very proud to have funded some extremely exciting research into perfusion machines. This cutting edge study uses a brand new clot-busting solution infused into the donor organ via a perfusion machine, to increase the number of viable organs for transplantation.

Perfusion machines are already being used to prolong the viability of organs before they are transplanted into the recipient, however this innovative new technique perfuses the organ with special anti-coagulant proteins to pre-condition it, and prevent clotting. The research, which is being carried out by Imperial College under London Renal and Transplant Centre at Hammersmith Hospital, is in its early stages, and currently only focusing on kidneys, however so far the results are extremely promising.

The hope is that this technique will have a three-fold positive effect on the donation and transplantation of organs. Firstly, it will increase the number of viable organs, which will in turn increase the number of transplants carried out; secondly it will reduce the event of clots forming in the newly transplanted organ, which can cause organ failure. Thirdly, this technique will reduce the need for anti-clotting drugs to be given to the patient, thereby reducing the risk of bleeding and associated complications.

There are currently ten thousand people in need of a transplant in the UK right now, and over six and a half thousand of those are waiting for a kidney. The wait for a new kidney is a long one, averaging about 3- 4 years.

Mr Vassilios Papalois, the consultant transplant surgeon at Hammersmith Hospital who is overseeing the project run by PhD student Karim Hamaoui says "We hope that we will be able to use organs that are currently considered to be not suitable for transplantation and also increase the chances of post-transplant survival and long-term function of those organs. There is immense potential benefit for our patients."