Autotransfusion During Liver Transplant for Liver Cancer

(SOLT Trial)

This trial aims to test a new approach called IBSA during liver transplant surgery for liver cancer. IBSA involves collecting a patient’s own blood during surgery, cleaning it, and then returning it to them. Participants will either receive this blood transfusion or not, to determine its safety and effectiveness. Those diagnosed with liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) and listed for a liver transplant might be suitable candidates. The trial's results could lead to a larger study to better understand how this method affects the need for donor blood and recovery outcomes. As an unphased trial, this study offers patients the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could improve future liver transplant procedures.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that intraoperative blood cell salvage and autotransfusion (IBSA) during liver cancer transplants is generally safe. Studies have found that IBSA does not increase cancer recurrence or affect survival rates compared to regular blood transfusions. Patients receiving their own blood during surgery experience similar outcomes to those receiving donor blood. Additionally, IBSA reduces the need for donor blood, which is beneficial. Overall, current evidence supports that IBSA is well-tolerated and does not introduce extra risks during liver cancer transplants.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about autotransfusion during liver transplants for liver cancer because it offers a unique way to reduce the need for donor blood. Unlike traditional methods that rely on external blood transfusions, autotransfusion uses the patient's own salvaged and washed red blood cells, potentially lowering the risk of transfusion reactions and infections. This approach not only enhances safety but could also improve recovery times by ensuring the body receives compatible blood. By exploring this technique, researchers hope to find a more efficient and safer alternative to standard blood transfusions during liver transplantation.

This trial will compare intraoperative blood cell salvage and autotransfusion (IBSA) with no autotransfusion during liver transplants for liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Research has shown that IBSA is beneficial and does not increase the risk of cancer recurrence. Studies indicate that IBSA offers survival rates similar to regular blood transfusions and does not lead to higher cancer recurrence after the transplant. This method reduces the need for donated blood during surgery, which can be advantageous. Additionally, IBSA has not been linked to worse cancer outcomes, making it a promising approach to managing blood loss during liver transplants.²³⁴⁶⁷