In the latest episode of the European Association for Cardio-thoracic Surgery’s podcast series ‘A Cut Above’, hosts Can Gollmann-Tepeköylü and Miia Lehtinen explore the viability and efficacy of ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) with EVLP experts Edris Mahtab and Andreas Zuckermann. Discussing their experience influencing the developing field of heart and lung transplantation, they try to answer the question of whether EVLP is a holy grail in surgery or too costly to ever really take off.

Published monthly, ‘A Cut Above’ discusses the latest research findings and guideline recommendations with interviews from key opinion leaders and residents from the community. This month’s conversation explores how EVP, which preserves and enhances organs outside the body, is revolutionising the way lungs and hearts from donation after circulatory death (DCD) donors are utilised.

Edris Mahtab, a cardiothoracic surgeon and associate professor at Leiden University Medical Center, and Andreas Zuckermann, the Director of Cardiac Transplantation at the Medical University of Vienna, bring their extensive experience and insights to the table. Both are pioneers in their field, with Dr. Mahtab having a distinguished career in cardiothoracic surgery and Dr. Zuckermann being a world-recognized leader in cardiac transplantation.

The discussion delves into the complex logistics and technical requirements of implementing EVP, from the need for specialised teams to the significant costs of equipment and disposables. Despite these challenges, EVP has already led to a notable increase in successful transplants and improved patient outcomes in various centres.

The episode also explores the future possibilities of EVP, including reducing organ immunogenicity, applying gene therapy before transplantation, and enhancing the overall viability of donor organs. The speakers emphasize the importance of collaboration between hospitals and transplant centers, particularly in smaller countries, to make EVP more accessible and effective.

Reflecting on the advancements, Mahtab and Zuckermann express optimism about EVP's potential to expand the donor pool and set new standards in transplant success. They also share insights into the ongoing evolution of the technology, envisioning a future where EVP plays a crucial role in global transplantation medicine.

Listen to the full episode