Flush perfusion with low potassium dextran solution improves early graft function in clinical lung transplantation

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Abstract
Objectives: We have previously demonstrated experimentally an amelioration of reperfusion injury of the lung after preservation using low potassium dextran (LPD) solution compared to Euro–Collins (EC) solution. Now we report on early graft function in 106 lung transplant recipients of LPD or EC preserved grafts. Methods: Initial graft function was assessed by measurement of lung compliance and oxygenation index 2 h after transplantation. Length of stay on the intensive care unit and hours of mechanical ventilation were compared. Correlation of donor oxygenation, ischemic time, type of transplant, recipient age and sex as well as initial lung compliance and oxygenation with early postoperative course were calculated. Results: Dynamic lung compliance was significantly (P < 0.05) improved in the LPD group. PO2/fiO2 was comparable in both groups (303±122 mmHg LPD, 282±118 mmHg EC). Mechanical ventilation was used for 321±500 h in the EC group and 189±365 h in the LPD group (P = 0.006). Intensive care therapy was required for 17.2±23.7 days in the EC group and 10.4±16 days in the LPD group (P = 0.012). Significantly higher lung function parameters were obtained in extubated recipients of LPD preserved grafts 2 weeks after TX. Thirty day graft survival was improved in the LPD group (P = 0.045). In the EC group, 30 day mortality was 14.2 and 8% in the LPD group. Conclusions: A reduction of perioperative mortality and morbidity suggests that LPD solution has superior early graft function compared to lung preservation using EC solution.