| abstract |
There is provided cardioplegic solutions for arresting an organ intended for transplantation and preservation solutions for perfusing and storing an organ while awaiting transplantation. The cardioplegic solutions include, per liter of solution, a balanced isotonic solution of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium ions and bicarbonate in a physiologically acceptable amount, at least 0.5 νM of an amiloride-containing compound; and water sufficient to make a liter of solution. The preserving solutions include per liter of solution, a balanced isotonic solution of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium ions and bicarbonate in physiologically acceptable amount, from about 1.0 νM to about 5.0 νM of an amiloride-containing compound; and water to make a liter of solution. In addition the preservation solution may contain other components such as EDTA, a small amount of adenosine, and at least one antioxidant. The amiloride-containing compound may be amiloride, hexamethylene amiloride, dimethyl amiloride, ethyl isopropyl amiloride or methyl isobutyl amiloride. There is also provided a method for arresting an organ, storing an organ and transplanting an organ all at room temperature for up to at least 24 hours. |