Perfadex

Perfadex is a commercial product used in organ transplantation. It is a preservation solution designed to maintain the viability of organs outside the body between the time of retrieval and transplantation. The solution is primarily composed of dextran, an electrolyte solution, and a buffer system. Dextran is a large carbohydrate molecule that helps to reduce swelling and maintain the osmotic balance within the organ's cells.

The primary function of Perfadex is to reduce cellular damage and metabolic activity within the organ during the ischemic period, which is the time the organ is without its normal blood supply. This is achieved by lowering the temperature of the organ and perfusing it with the solution, which displaces blood and provides a low-oxygen, nutrient-poor environment that minimizes cellular degradation.

Perfadex is commonly used for the preservation of kidneys and is also employed for the preservation of livers and pancreases. Its efficacy in extending the time an organ can be stored without significant loss of function is a critical factor in successful transplantation, allowing for better organ matching, transport logistics, and patient preparation. The specific composition and usage protocols are determined by the transplant team based on the organ type and anticipated preservation time.