New technique saving lives one liver at a time

Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital (SCGH) has a new liver perfusion machine helping surgical teams save lives by increasing the rate of liver transplants in WA.

The technology of the machine uses a method called cold and warm perfusion which revitalises the donated liver better than ever. 

SCGH is the first in Australia to utilise this technology of combined cold and warm liver perfusion.

Transplant Surgeon at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital Dr Arul Suthananthan said this process is leading edge.

 “Livers like this wouldn't have been able to be used in the past. The technology allows the liver to be rejuvenated; in turn, increasing the capacity of donation," he said.

“The cold perfusion infuses cold oxygenated fluid into the liver, recovers the liver and prevents complications, especially in the bile ducts. 

“This is followed by warm perfusion, which infuses oxygenated blood at body temperature allowing surgeons to further improve and assess if the liver is suitable to transplant”. 

The new method could increase the number of liver transplants in WA by a remarkable 70 per cent.

Previously, livers had to meet a certain age and health criteria to be transplanted.

SCGH Transplant surgeon Dr Adam Philipoff said the next step is to adopt similar technology and adapt it for kidney transplants to help those on the kidney wait list.

The new approach is great news for organ transplant recipients.

Our DonateLife team coordinates all organ and tissue donor activities across the state.

It works with medical and nursing specialists to support professional donation services.

It is simple and easy to register to be an organ and tissue donor, to help save the lives of many people.

Find out how donation works and who can be helped by my donation.