Thoracoabdominal NRP (TA-NRP) targets perfusion of the heart and lungs in addition to the liver, kidneys, and pancreas, increasing the number of potentially transplantable organs recovered from a DCD donor. As with A-NRP, an extracorporeal mechanical device is utilized. TA-NRP is usually performed by placing cannulas in the heart and ascending aorta, with the aortic arch vessels clamped or divided to prevent cerebral perfusion.22 TA-NRP is typically initiated by thoracic surgeons supported by a trained perfusionist. Abdominal surgeons are on-site to recover the abdominal organs, and an anesthesia provider might be requested to re-intubate the donor after NRP is established. During TANRP the heart resumes beating, and the NRP flow can be weaned to allow the heart and lungs to support perfusion and oxygenation. (Alliance DCD Guide, 2024)
See also Normothermic Regional Perfusion; Abdominal NRP. (Alliance Glossary, June 2026)