Transplantation of a Severely Traumatized Liver During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Exp Clin Transplant. 2021 Nov;19(11):1232-1237. doi: 10.6002/ect.2021.0269. Epub 2021 Sep 20.

Abstract

Shortages of grafts for liver transplant remain a persistent problem. The use of lacerated livers for liver transplant can add an option for extended criteria donations, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. We present the case of a successful liver transplant performed using a high-grade lacerated liver previously treated with superselective arterial embolization and packing for bleeding control. In view of the absence of guidelines for the use of lacerated livers for transplant, we also performed a review of the literature on injured liver grafts that were used for liver transplants. Meticulous care and careful selection of recipients were essential prerequisites for achieving successful outcomes.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Injuries / diagnostic imaging
  • Abdominal Injuries / etiology*
  • Abdominal Injuries / therapy
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • COVID-19*
  • Clinical Decision-Making
  • Donor Selection
  • End Stage Liver Disease / diagnosis
  • End Stage Liver Disease / surgery*
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Heart Massage / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Liver / diagnostic imaging
  • Liver / injuries*
  • Liver / surgery*
  • Liver Transplantation* / adverse effects
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Myocardial Infarction / diagnosis
  • Myocardial Infarction / etiology
  • Myocardial Infarction / therapy*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy / complications*
  • Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy / diagnosis
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult