Machine that keeps donor livers alive could expand transplants

NCT ID NCT04194437

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This trial tested a portable machine called the OCS Liver System that keeps donor livers healthy outside the body. The goal was to see if it could help more livers from donors after circulatory death be used for transplant. Only 9 people took part, and the study was stopped early, so we don't have clear answers yet.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Portable Organ Care System (OCS) Liver device

What this could lead to

If successful, this device could help more donor livers be used for transplant, potentially reducing waitlist deaths.

What could go wrong

This was a very small, early trial that was terminated early, so results are limited. The device may not improve outcomes or could have safety issues.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Henry Ford Hospital

    Detroit, Michigan, 48202, United States

  • Massachusetts General Hospital

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States

  • Mount Sinai Hospital

    New York, New York, 10029, United States

  • University of Texas San Antonio

    San Antonio, Texas, 78249, United States