Hypothermic Machine Perfusion (HMP)
LifePort Liver Transporter
The LifePort Liver Transporter is an advanced organ preservation system designed to improve donor liver viability during transport using hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP). By continuously perfusing the liver with oxygenated preservation solution, the system significantly reduces ischemic injury compared to traditional static cold storage (SCS).
Clinical Background
Approximately 2,500 patients in the United States die every year while waiting for a liver transplant. Increasing the number of organs available for transplantation while reducing post-transplant complications and shortening hospital stay are critical clinical goals for improving patient outcomes.
Almost 2,500 adult patients die in the US each year waiting for a liver transplant.
US Liver Transplant Waiting List Overview
| Category | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patients at start of year | 14,956 | 15,360 | 15,428 |
| Patients added during year | 10,349 | 10,359 | 10,143 |
| Patients removed during year | 9,925 | 10,272 | 10,281 |
| Patients at end of year | 15,380 | 15,447 | 15,290 |
| Deceased donor transplant | 5,450 | 5,539 | 5,468 |
| Living donor transplant | 209 | 187 | 192 |
| Patient died | 2,458 | 2,506 | 2,187 |
| Patient refused transplant | 53 | 60 | 73 |
| Improved – transplant not needed | 552 | 541 | 644 |
| Too sick to transplant | 362 | 482 | 815 |
| Other | 841 | 957 | 902 |
HMP Reduces Liver Injury Compared with SCS
| Marker | HMP | SCS | P Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Serum AST | 1154 IU/mL | 3339 IU/mL | 0.011 |
| Peak Serum ALT | 560 IU/mL | 1358 IU/mL | 0.044 |
| Peak Serum TBili | 6.59 mg/dL | 9.46 mg/dL | 0.042 |
| Peak Serum SCr | 1.34 mg/dL | 2.00 mg/dL | 0.013 |
Transforming Outcomes
Clinical feasibility studies demonstrated that livers preserved using LifePort hypothermic machine perfusion showed fewer biliary complications compared to static cold storage. Early allograft dysfunction occurred less frequently, and hospital length of stay was significantly reduced in patients receiving perfused livers.
Additional controlled studies confirmed that HMP allows transplantation of expanded-criteria livers previously deemed unsuitable, increasing the available donor pool while maintaining patient safety.
Innovative LifePort Technology
LifePort Liver Transporter delivers precision-controlled hypothermic perfusion of both the hepatic artery and portal vein. The system supports continuous dynamic perfusion while maintaining static cold storage redundancy for enhanced safety during transport.
Programmable Display
The programmable user interface displays real-time organ perfusion parameters including hepatic and portal flow, pressure, perfusate temperature, total flow, cross-clamp time, and infusion duration, ensuring complete visibility throughout transport.
Design & Usability
- Fold-out lid provides optional work surface in crowded OR environments
- Hinged lids allow easy removal and compact storage
- Optional height-adjustable custom transport cart available