Successful Three- to Seven-Day Preservation of Canine Kidneys

Abstract

In 12 experiments dog kidneys have been preserved for periods of 72, 96, 120, and 168 hours. The preservation system employed pulsatile perfusion, membrane oxygenation, hypothermia, and an acellular, cryoprecipitated plasma perfusate high in steroid content. Success, while consistent at 72 hours in six dogs, was less predictable when preservation time was increased. One of each pair preserved for the longer periods was a long-term survivor with immediate life-sustaining function and eventual return to normal or near normal function.