A preliminary study of a hybrid bioartificial liver support system with porcine hepatocytes in the treatment of hepatic failure

Objective To evaluate the feasibility of a hybrid bioartificial liver support system with porcine hepatocytes in the treatment of chronic severe hepatitis. Methods A total of 5 patients with chronic severe hepatitis received the extracorporeal artificial liver support using a self commanded hybrid bioartificial liver support system based on the hepatocytes of experimental suckling minipigs. Both curative effect and security of the system were estimated. Results Liver failure of the 5 patients was controlled by the hybrid bioartificial liver support system. Their clinical symptoms, hepatic encephalopathy and liver failure markedly improved after treatment. Two of the 5 patients recovered completely. One was bridged to liver transplantation and 2 died, but the death was not related to the harmful reaction of artificial liver support. Conclusion The hybrid bioartificial liver system with porcine hepatocytes can be used as an auxiliary supporting and treating method for chronic severe hepatitis.