Inhibition of Fibrinolysis in Extracorporeal Pig Liver Perfusion

Abstract

Antifibrinolytic activity was studied in the perfusate during extracorporeal pig liver perfusion. Heparinized human blood was used in 5 perfusions and a buffered electrolyte dextran solution in one perfusion. There was a marked release of the antifibrinolytic substance from the liver. This release was impaired by hypothermia and hypoxia, suggesting hepatic synthesis of the antifibrinolytic substance. The high levels of antifibrinolytic activity attained during perfusion may be clinically significant, reducing the risk of haemorrhage by preventing gross increases in fibrinolysis.

Key-words:

• Artificial circulation
• extracorporeal circulation
• fibrinolysis
• haemorrhage
• inhibitor
• liver perfusion
• pig