[Perfluorochemical emulsion as a perfusate in 24-hour liver preservation prior to transplantation in the rat].

Perfluorochemical (PFC) emulsion as a perfusate of liver preservation prior to transplantation was evaluated in continuous hypothermic perfusion for 24 hours followed by orthotopic transplantation in inbred male Lewis rat. Three different contents of PFC emulsion that is, 20% (original Fluosol DA), 10% and 0% PFC solution were prepared as a perfusate. Isolated liver was stored for up to 24 hours using a continuous non-pulsatile perfusion technique of closed circuit with each perfusate. Gas content, GOT, GPT, LDH, potassium and glucose of the perfusate were measured. Oxygen consumption of perfused liver was higher in PFC emulsion than non PFC perfusate. Biochemical analysis of perfusate suggested that liver was preserved best in 10% PFC emulsion. Histological findings, especially, acid phosphatase staining, showed better result in PFC groups. One week survival rates after liver graft were 4/6 (66.7%) in 10% PFC solution, 1/6 (16.7%) in 20% and 0/6 (0%) in 0% solution. In spite of the highest oxygen consumption of perfused liver in early phase, 20% PFC emulsion did not bring the good preservation of perfused liver because of impaired circulation due to higher viscosity in low temperature. Ten percent PFC solution is considered the best in hypothermic preservation of the liver.