ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVES</b>To construct a novel hybrid artificial liver support system and evaluate its clinical efficacy in the treatment of hepatic failure.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A hybrid bioartificial liver support system consisting of plasma exchange device, charcoal perfusion column, and bioreactor cultured human or porcine hepatocytes was developed. 30 patients with hepatic failure were treated using this hybrid system.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Both the excellent rate and effectual rate of the artificial liver support system were 43.3% (13/30). The total effectual rate was 86.7%. Finally, eleven out of 30 patients recovered completely. Six patients were bridged to liver transplantation. Six patients (20%) died of hepatic failure and seven patients (23.3%) discharged due to worsening of disease.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>The hybrid artificial liver support system has prominent liver support effects for hepatic failure, which can be regarded as an efficient measure for the treatment of severe hepatitis.</p>