Organs That Can Live Outside the Body

Heart – Up to 4–6 Hours

The heart must be transplanted quickly. Once removed, it can survive for 4 to 6 hours if stored properly in a cold preservation solution.

Kidneys – 24 to 36 Hours

Kidneys are among the most resilient organs. When cooled and preserved in special fluids, they can survive outside the body for up to 36 hours.

Liver – 12 to 15 Hours

The liver can last up to 15 hours in cold storage. It’s often transported over long distances for transplantation thanks to its relative durability.

Lungs – Around 6 to 8 Hours

Lungs are more delicate but can survive about 6 to 8 hours outside the body when preserved correctly using special ventilation and cooling.

Pancreas – 12 to 24 Hours

The pancreas is sensitive but can be preserved for up to 24 hours. It`s commonly used in transplants for patients with type 1 diabetes.

Corneas – Up to 14 Days

Corneal tissue can survive the longest. When stored in the right preservation media, it can remain viable for up to two weeks.

Intestines – 8 to 16 Hours

Though highly vascular and fragile, intestines can survive for several hours outside the body when properly preserved and cooled.