The results of orthotopic liver transplantation in patients > 55 years were compared to a group of patients aged < or = 55 years. Rates of 1- and 4-year patient survival were 88.5% and 73.1% vs. 88.0% and 70.7%, respectively. Morbidity and postoperative mortality were similar in both groups, suggesting that orthotopic liver transplantation can be safely performed in patients > 55 years of age with excellent improvement of quality of life.