How long can an organ live after it is removed from a dead person?

The viability of organs after removal from a deceased donor depends on several factors, including the specific organ, preservation techniques, and storage conditions. Here are some approximate timeframes for how long different organs can remain viable outside the body:

1. Heart: Up to 4-6 hours.

2. Kidneys: Up to 36-48 hours.

3. Liver: Up to 12-24 hours.

4. Pancreas: Up to 12-24 hours.

5. Lungs: Up to 4-6 hours.

6. Small Intestine: Up to 6-8 hours.

7. Skin: Up to 24 hours for transplantation; skin can be cryopreserved for long-term storage.

8. Bone Marrow: Up to 24 hours.

These timeframes represent the general upper limits of organ viability under ideal conditions, and successful transplantation may require obtaining the organ within a shorter time frame. After harvesting from the donor, organs are typically perfused with preservation solutions that help protect their tissues and slow down deterioration.

The recipient's condition, availability of compatible donors, and logistical challenges related to organ transport can also impact the overall transplantation process and may limit the timeframe for successful organ transplantation.