What is begun when the aorta is cross-clamped during organ recovery?

When the aorta is cross-clamped during organ recovery, Cold Ischemic Time (CIT) begins. This is a critical moment in the organ recovery process, as it marks the transition from warm ischemia to cold ischemia for the organs being recovered.

Warm ischemia refers to the period when the blood flow to the organs is interrupted but they remain at body temperature, which can lead to cellular damage. Once the aorta is cross-clamped, blood flow is halted, and the organs are exposed to a cold solution, often through hypothermic preservation techniques, which help preserve the organs and minimize damage until they can be transplanted.

The accurate measurement of CIT is essential for assessing the viability of the organs for transplantation, as prolonged cold ischemic times can negatively impact organ function and increase the risk of complications post-transplant. This understanding is crucial in donor management and successful transplantation outcomes.