Organ Shutdown Timeline: Which organ stops functioning first after death—the brain, kidneys, or the heart? Find out the answer.:Most people have a question in their mind that which organ closes first after death.

News Topical, Digital Desk : Which Organ Fails First When a Person Dies: When a person dies, the body doesn't shut down completely all at once. Different organs stop functioning at different times, depending on their oxygen needs and dependence on blood flow. Understanding this organ shutdown timeline not only clarifies the process of death but also reveals which organs may be amenable to transplantation. Let's explain which organ fails first.

What happens first?

As soon as the heart stops beating, the oxygen supply to the body stops. The brain requires the most oxygen, so it is the first to be affected. Brain cells begin to die within approximately 4 to 7 minutes. When the brain ceases to function permanently, it is called "brain death," and this is considered the medically definitive sign of death.

When does the heart and breathing stop?

In most cases of natural death, breathing stops along with the heart's heartbeat. Once the heart stops, blood flow stops, and the lungs also stop functioning. However, in the hospital, machines can provide oxygen to the organs for some time. From a transplant perspective, if properly preserved, the heart and lungs can remain viable for approximately 4 to 6 hours.

Which organs are affected after a few hours?

The liver, pancreas, and intestines rely on energy and enzymes, which causes them to rapidly degrade once blood circulation is cut off. Their function typically declines within 8 to 18 hours. If they are immediately preserved at cold temperatures, they can be preserved for a limited time for transplantation.

Which organs remain protected for the longest time?

Kidneys are relatively durable organs. If they are quickly cooled and preserved after death, they can remain transplantable for 24 to 36 hours. The cornea, the transparent outer layer of the eye, is less oxygen-dependent and can remain viable for donation for approximately 14 days. Tissues like skin and bone can be preserved for several days to years with proper preservation. This is why skin grafts and bone tissue can be used even after long periods of time.