Organs: Functions and Applications

Organ/What it Does Transplantation Uses Heart Pumps blood to all body systems For patients with end-stage heart disease Liver Instrumental in energy regulation, makes protein, removes waste from blood For patients with end-stage liver disease Lungs Organs of respiration For patients with cystic fibrosis, emphysema or other end-stage lung disease Pancreas   Secretes enzymes necessary for digestion, secretes insulin that helps regulate blood sugar For treating diabetes, eliminates need for insulin injections, reduces risk of losing sight or limb Kidneys   Extract waste from blood, maintain fluid balance, produce important hormones Eliminates need for dialysis for patients with end-stage renal disease Intestine   Completes digestion process; absorbs water and nutrients, moves and stores waste until expelled Replaces diseased bowels; used for children with Short Bowel Syndrome (by Intestine), patients with Crohn's disease