Normothermic Machine Perfusion in pediatric liver transplantation: A survey of attitudes and barriers

Background NMP provides a superior strategy for the assessment and preservation of marginal donor livers and has demonstrated increased utilization and enhances organ quality when used in adult liver transplantation. We aimed to evaluate the interest of incorporating the use of NMP in pediatric liver transplantation. Methods An anonymous online survey was distributed to pediatric transplant surgeons and hepatologists across the United States. Respondent demographic information, attitudes toward NMP in pediatric liver transplantation, and barriers to utilization were examined. Results Thirty-two providers (18 transplant surgeons and 14 hepatologists) completed the survey, yielding a response rate of 64%. Half (50%) of respondents indicated prior exposure to NMP. Overall, 96% of respondents believed there was benefit to using NMP in pediatric liver transplantation. DCD (68%) and post-cross-clamp (75%) grafts were the greatest opportunity for NMP use. A role in splitting livers ex vivo (71%) was also seen as a potential major opportunity. Cost was perceived as a barrier to implementation (36%), followed by institutional factors (32%). Cost tolerance was significantly greater in respondents residing in OPTN regions with greater than median wait times (63% vs. 11% in OPTN regions with greater vs. shorter wait times, p = .010). Conclusions There is significant interest within the pediatric liver transplant community for NMP to expand the donor pool. Interest appears particularly strong in regions where wait times for suitable pediatric donors are prolonged.

Automated summary

This study investigated the interest and barriers to incorporating non-invasive monitoring of marginal donor livers in pediatric liver transplantation. The survey showed that there is significant interest in using non-invasive monitoring, especially in regions with longer wait times for suitable pediatric donors.