A Narrative Review of Hemoadsorption in Organ Preservation and Transplantation

Refugio Arni^*
*Correspondence: Refugio Arni, Department of Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital Zürich, 8091 Zürich, Switzerland, Email:

Introduction

Organ transplantation is a life-saving procedure for patients with end-stage organ failure. However, the success of transplantation is limited by the shortage of donor organs and the risk of complications such as Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury (IRI) and rejection. Hemoadsorption, a technique that removes toxins and inflammatory mediators from the bloodstream, has emerged as a potential strategy to improve organ preservation and transplantation outcomes. In this narrative review, we explore the role of hemoadsorption in organ preservation and transplantation, focusing on its mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and future directions. In the context of organ transplantation, hemoadsorption has been investigated for its potential to improve outcomes and reduce complications. Several studies have reported favorable outcomes with the use of hemoadsorption in transplant recipients, including reduced rates of acute rejection and improved graft function. Hemoadsorption may also help mitigate the effects of IRI, which can occur during the transplantation process [1-3].

Description

Hemoadsorption involves the use of adsorbent materials to remove toxins and inflammatory mediators from the bloodstream. The adsorbent material is typically housed in a cartridge or filter, which is connected to the patient's blood circulation via a vascular access device. As blood passes through the adsorbent material, toxins and inflammatory mediators bind to the surface of the adsorbent, effectively removing them from the bloodstream. Hemoadsorption has been studied for its potential role in improving organ preservation techniques. Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury (IRI) is a common complication of organ transplantation, characterized by tissue damage resulting from the restoration of blood flow to the organ after a period of ischemia. IRI can lead to organ dysfunction and graft failure [4,5]. Hemoadsorption has been shown to reduce levels of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and chemokines, which are thought to contribute to IRI. By reducing inflammation, hemoadsorption may help protect organs from the damaging effects of IRI during preservation [6].

Conclusion

While hemoadsorption shows promise in organ preservation and transplantation, several challenges and limitations must be addressed. These include the need for further research to optimize the technique, clarify its mechanisms of action, and determine its long-term effects. Additionally, the cost and availability of hemoadsorption devices may limit its widespread adoption in clinical practice. Hemoadsorption is a promising technique with the potential to improve organ preservation and transplantation outcomes. By removing toxins and inflammatory mediators from the bloodstream, hemoadsorption may help protect organs from IRI and reduce the risk of complications such as rejection. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the benefits of hemoadsorption in organ preservation and transplantation and to optimize its use in clinical practice.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

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