HEPATIC SUPPORT WITH HEPATOCYTE SUSPENSIONS IN A PERMEABLE MEMBRANE DIALYZER

  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 82  (5) , 599-606
Abstract
Hepatic support by whole liver, liver slice or hepatocyte perfusion is unsatisfactory. A new concept of support with circulating hepatocytes on 1 side of a cuprophan membrane and blood from an anhepatic pig on the other was evaluated in 19 dialysis experiments. Levels of pyruvate metabolism and O2 utilization were similar to those obtained when liver cells in a centrifuge are perfused with oxygenated plasma. Of 6 anhepatic pigs given late hepatic support, 5 showed neurologic improvement. One had concomitant improvement in EEG results. A membrane hemodialysis unit in which hepatocytes circulate against blood from an anhepatic animal is the most suitable extracorporeal liver support unit described so far. Its simplicity allows repeated and prolonged use.

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