Perfusion techniques in the preservation of the isolated canine lung.

An experimental technique is described whereby the isolated lung is perfused by means of its respiratory excursion. No perfusion pump is required. Lungs were subjected to positive and negative pressure inflation in a sealed box and were perfused with either blood or blood and low molecular weight dextran at 36° C. and 23°C. In all experiments gross histological changes and pulmonary oedema developed within four hours. Marginally longer perfusions were obtained than in a control series in which a roller pump was used.