Living-related liver transplantation in children at Saint-Luc University Clinics: a seven year experience in 77 recipients

Acta Chir Belg. 2001 Jan-Feb;101(1):17-9.

Abstract

The Brussels series of living related liver transplantation (LRLT) in 77 children (< 15 years) is reviewed. Median (range) recipient age at liver transplantation was 1.1 year (0.4-13.1). The main indication for LT was biliary atresia in 55/77 cases (71%). The living-related donor was one of the parents in 74 instances. Hepatic segments 2-3 (n = 67) or 2-3-4 (n = 10) were implanted orthotopically, with a median (range) graft weight to recipient body weight ratio of 3.17% (0.91-8.08). No severe complications or significant long-term sequelae were encountered in the living donors. One and five year survival rates were 92% and 89% for the patients, and 90% and 86% for the grafts, respectively. The retransplantation rate was 2/77 (2.6%), the indication being chronic rejection in both instances. In conclusion, LRLT is now a validated procedure in the living donors as well as in pediatric recipients with chronic or acute liver diseases. In the current context of organ shortage, it provides a valuable alternative to cadaveric LT.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Belgium
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Hepatectomy
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Liver Transplantation*
  • Living Donors*
  • Male
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology
  • Postoperative Complications / mortality
  • Reoperation
  • Survival Rate
  • Tissue Donors / supply & distribution*