Which organ is NOT typically recovered during brain death?

In the context of organ recovery during brain death, it is essential to understand the common practices following the declaration of brain death. After a determination of brain death, the viability of various organs for transplantation can sometimes depend on the overall health of the organ and the patient's previous medical history.

Typically, significant efforts are made to recover organs that have a high likelihood of success for transplantation. Organs such as the heart, lungs, and liver are frequently recovered and can be effectively transplanted.

However, the intestines are less commonly recovered, primarily due to their limited viability after brain death. The intestines are particularly sensitive to ischemia (lack of blood flow), and their function is heavily dependent on a well-maintained blood supply. Once brain death occurs, this supply is compromised, leading to swift degradation of the intestinal tissues. Unlike other organs that may retain function and viability for a longer period, the intestines pose challenges in terms of preservation and transplantation outcomes.

In summary, while the heart, lungs, and liver are prioritized for recovery after brain death, the intestines are generally not recovered due to the complications associated with their viability and preservation.