Liver Transplantation Following Life-threatening Abdominal Trauma: A Case Series of 5 Patients at a Single Institution

Transplant Proc. 2019 Jul-Aug;51(6):1902-1906. doi: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2019.04.042. Epub 2019 May 30.

Abstract

Managing traumatic liver injury (TLI) is always challenging and demands precise clinical judgment. Currently, treatment of TLI in most circumstances is non-operative; however, surgical therapy might be required for severe TLI, particularly those that result in extensive blood loss. In the current institutional study carried out from June 1995 to April 2017, we describe our experience with 5 patients who received an orthotopic liver transplant for severe TLI. One patient passed away postoperatively from cerebral edema; 1 patient died of renal failure 4 years after the liver transplantation, and 3 patients are still alive. Based on our experience, we conclude that in patients with TLI, especially those with uncontrollable bleeding or those who develop liver failure, liver transplantation should be taken into consideration.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Injuries / etiology
  • Abdominal Injuries / mortality
  • Abdominal Injuries / surgery*
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Liver / injuries*
  • Liver Transplantation / methods
  • Liver Transplantation / mortality*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged