*Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop a stable porcine model for normothermic ex-vivo pancreas perfusion (NEVPP) for the preservation of grafts with the goal of eventually providing a platform for organ assessment and repair that that could easily be transferred to a clinical set-up.

*Methods: Previously our lab has developed a novel pancreas perfusion system and the appropriate parameters for the perfusion of porcine pancreases have been established. In addition, we have established a model of transplantation into pigs rendered diabetic following total pancreatectomy. Using this model, we compared two groups. First group was submitted to 5 hours of Static Cold Storage (SCS), transplantation and a 3-day follow-up (N=5). Second group was submitted to 2 hours of SCS followed by 3 hours of NEVPP, transplantation and a 3-day follow up (N=3). Amylase was measured at baseline and on POD1,2 and 3. Glucose levels were closely monitored and before sacrifice a glucose tolerance test was performed.

*Results: Average donor weight was 40.37 ± 2.5 kg and average recipient weight was 41.16 ± 2 kg. Average graft weight in the SCS group was 144 ± 4.7 g. Average graft weight in the NEVPP group was 180.6 ± 19.1 g before perfusion and 232.3 ±58.5 g after perfusion with an average increase of 28.6 ± 20 %. There was no statistical difference in amylase levels between the 2 groups (Figure 1). All animals presented a normal glucose tolerance test on POD3 (Figure 2)

*Conclusions: The current study demonstrates the safety and feasibility of pancreas transplantation after ex vivo pancreas perfusion in a porcine model. Even though the number of transplanted animals is limited, there are no statistical differences between the SCS and the NEVPP groups. Future studies will compare pancreas transplantation after static cold storage with pancreas transplantation after ex vivo perfusion in DCD grafts.

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