Liver Transplantation in Children

Clin Liver Dis. 2018 Nov;22(4):807-821. doi: 10.1016/j.cld.2018.06.004. Epub 2018 Aug 22.

Abstract

Liver transplantation (LT) for children has excellent short- and long-term patient and graft survival. LT is a lifesaving procedure in children with acute or chronic liver disease, hepatic tumors, and a few genetic metabolic diseases in which it can significantly improve quality of life. In this article, the authors discuss the unique aspects of pediatric LT, including the indications, patient selection and evaluation, allocation, transplant surgery and organ selection, posttransplant care, prognosis, adherence, and transition of care.

Keywords: Immunosuppression; Liver failure; Living donor; Pediatric liver transplant; Split liver.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppression Therapy / methods
  • Infant
  • Liver Diseases / surgery*
  • Liver Transplantation* / adverse effects
  • Liver Transplantation* / methods
  • Patient Compliance
  • Patient Selection*
  • Resource Allocation / standards*
  • Tissue and Organ Procurement