Liver Transplantation in the Presence of Portal Vein Thrombosis
1992
Liver Transplantation with Portal Vein Thrombosis
Sample size: 34
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Paul McMaster
Primary Institution: Queen Elizabeth Hospital
Hypothesis
Can patients with portal vein thrombosis be successfully transplanted?
Conclusion
Most patients with portal vein thrombosis can be safely transplanted, achieving a survival rate comparable to those without thrombosis.
Supporting Evidence
- Survival rate for patients with portal vein thrombosis was 67.6%.
- Survival was best for patients who underwent phlebothrombectomy or placement of a jump graft.
- Technical options for dealing with portal vein thrombosis have improved significantly.
Takeaway
Doctors can now safely perform liver transplants on patients with a blocked vein, and many of these patients do just as well as those without the blockage.
Methodology
A series of 34 patients with portal vein thrombosis were transplanted, and various surgical techniques were employed.
Limitations
The increased technical difficulties and time involved in surgery may lead to higher risks of graft failure.
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