Development of an automated liver perfusion system: The benefit of a hemofilter

Abstract

Introduction: Liver perfusion machines are close to becoming a reality in the transplantation field. However, depending on the techniques used and the goals pursued, their application is limited in the research field. Here, we present the entire development of a perfusion system with self-made engineering, completely autonomous controls, and a high degree of versatility that allows the design of different studies on liver functionality. Methods: A user-friendly interface permits real-time monitoring and remote control by the devices within the circuit. Centrifugal pumps allow the perfusate enter the organ with controlled pressures and flows at both hepatic artery and portal vein. The implementation of a hemofilter as a novel tool permits to control and maintain homeostasis. Peristaltic pumps adjust pH, extraction rate, and total volume by means of sensors. Results: Real-time monitoring facilitates liver functionality assessment. The controlled system shows rapid stabilization and quick responses to changes during 6 h of perfusion experiments. Furthermore, the integration of a hemofilter helps the system to eliminate toxic waste and maintain homeostasis. Discussion: The machine provides the basis of a perfusion system with autonomous controls and the implementation of a hemofilter that enables a more efficient control of hemostasis. Moreover, the developed hardware and software are subjected to further tuning for additional purposes such as pathophysiologic studies, suboptimal grafts recovery, or recellularization of decellularized scaffolds among others.