Comparison of two electrolyte solutions for short perfusion and hypothermic storage in experimental renal preservation

Abstract

Abstract In recent years the need for preserving kidneys has become of great importance because of the development of renal transplantation. The most effective and practical method yet described to preserve kidneys outside the body appears to be immersion in a cooled solution combined with initial perfusion. The aim of the present study was to compare two perfusates routinely used in this procedure: Collins solution and Perfudex. A total of 22 kidneys was removed and stored with one of these perfusates and then autotransplanted. Renal function was monitored by radio-isotope measurements: 197HgCl2 uptake and radio-hippuran renography. An assessment of the histological evidence of renal damage was made on preserved kidneys 3 months after transplantation. As judged by the results of these investigations the most satisfactory preservation of kidneys was obtained with the Collins solution. The use of this perfusate allows a storage time of 24 hours without decreased function or morphological changes in the kidneys. Other investigators have also confirmed the efficacy of the Collins solution and have provided further evidence for its superiority over conventional perfusates for kidney preservation. The current use of the Collins solution, as now recommended by the France Transplant Association, makes the future of clinical kidney transplantation more hopeful.