Standard retail coolers are the primary tools used to transport human organs for transplant.

For decades, the gold standard for organ preservation has been Static Cold Storage (SCS). This process involves flushing the organ with a preservation solution and placing it in a sterile bag, which is then submerged in a retail cooler filled with ice. Brands like Igloo and Coleman are preferred because they are inexpensive, easily replaceable, and provide consistent insulation for several hours.The primary goal is to maintain a temperature between 2°C and 8°C. At these temperatures, the metabolic rate of the organ drops to about 5% to 10% of its normal level. This delay in metabolism prevents the buildup of toxic byproducts and preserves the organ's viability during transit. If the temperature drops below freezing, ice crystals can form and rupture the delicate cellular membranes.According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), most kidneys can survive in these coolers for up to 24 to 36 hours. Hearts and lungs are much more sensitive, typically requiring transplantation within 4 to 6 hours. While high-tech perfusion machines exist, they can cost over $50,000 per use, whereas a $50 retail cooler remains the most practical and reliable choice for thousands of transplants annually.Recent studies published in journals like the New England Journal of Medicine continue to compare these traditional coolers against modern machine perfusion. While machines show promise for 'marginal' organs, the simplicity of the plastic cooler remains the industry standard due to its proven track record. The durability of these consumer products ensures they can withstand the rigors of transport in helicopters and ambulances without failing.