Machine perfusion in paediatric liver transplantation
This webinar will be on February 24, 2026 (16:00 CET)
This webinar will focus on the emerging role of machine perfusion (MP) in pediatric liver transplantation. It will highlight current applications of hypothermic and normothermic perfusion techniques, their potential to improve graft outcomes, and their role in expanding the donor pool—especially through the use of split and DCD grafts. The session will also address practical challenges and future directions for integrating MP into pediatric transplant programs.
Speakers:
-Prof. Marco Spada, MD, PhD, FEBS, Surgeon, Division of Hepatobiliopancreatic Surgery, Liver and Kidney Transplantation, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Rome, Italy.
-Dr. Ricardo Cirelli, MD, Surgeon, Division of Hepatobiliopancreatic Surgery, Liver and Kidney Transplantation, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, Rome, Italy.
Learning outcomes:
- Understanding the Challenges in Pediatric Liver Transplantation:
Participants will gain a clear understanding of the unique challenges faced in pediatric liver transplantation, including the limitations in donor organ availability and the specific needs of pediatric recipients. - Familiarity with Machine Perfusion Techniques:
Attendees will become familiar with the basic principles and applications of machine perfusion techniques, specifically hypothermic oxygenated perfusion (HOPE) and normothermic machine perfusion (NMP), and their role in improving donor liver preservation. - Awareness of Current Clinical Applications in Pediatric LT:
Participants will learn about the current clinical applications of machine perfusion in pediatric liver transplantation, including its use in DCD grafts, split liver transplants, and its impact on reducing cold ischemia time and improving graft survival. - Insights into Recent Research and Data:
Attendees will be introduced to recent clinical studies, multicenter data, and expert surveys exploring the feasibility, outcomes, and barriers to the widespread use of machine perfusion in pediatric transplantation. - Appreciation of Ethical and Collaborative Considerations:
Participants will gain insight into the importance of ethical considerations, as well as the need for collaborative efforts among transplant centers, to ensure the safe and effective implementation of machine perfusion technologies in pediatric LT. - Critical Evaluation of Barriers and Opportunities:
Participants will develop the ability to critically evaluate the potential barriers to machine perfusion adoption in pediatric transplantation, including cost, institutional factors, and regional wait times, as well as the opportunities for expanding the donor pool and improving transplant outcomes.