Thermographic Imaging of Lungs Procured and Transported on Ice

Abstract

Purpose Standard preservation of lungs consists of cold perfusion with subsequent ice-cold (target temperature 4°C) storage and transport to the implant centre. Objective of this study was to demonstrate thermographic imaging of lungs procured and transported on ice. Methods 7 lungs were procured with standard techniques and transported to Harefield with storage times of 2-6 hours. Upon arrival the lungs were unpacked and the surface temperature profile assessed using a thermo-imaging camera (Flir E5). Lowest and highest surface temperatures were documented. Results Temperature profile was assessed with representative pictures in Fig 1 Conclusion Standard cold perfusion of lungs with subsequent storage on ice results in non-homogenous surface temperature cooling even after extended storage. Temperatures reached a minimum of 0.2°C and maximum of 10.6°C. Alternative storage methods such as controlled cold storage might overcome these limitations. Standard preservation of lungs consists of cold perfusion with subsequent ice-cold (target temperature 4°C) storage and transport to the implant centre. Objective of this study was to demonstrate thermographic imaging of lungs procured and transported on ice. 7 lungs were procured with standard techniques and transported to Harefield with storage times of 2-6 hours. Upon arrival the lungs were unpacked and the surface temperature profile assessed using a thermo-imaging camera (Flir E5). Lowest and highest surface temperatures were documented. Temperature profile was assessed with representative pictures in Fig 1 Standard cold perfusion of lungs with subsequent storage on ice results in non-homogenous surface temperature cooling even after extended storage. Temperatures reached a minimum of 0.2°C and maximum of 10.6°C. Alternative storage methods such as controlled cold storage might overcome these limitations.