Post-hoc analysis of a randomized controlled trial on the impact of pre-transplant use of probiotics on outcomes after liver transplantation

Sci Rep. 2020 Nov 17;10(1):19944. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-76994-3.

Abstract

Perioperative use of probiotics serves as efficient prophylaxis against postoperative infections after liver transplantation, yet data on long-term effects of pre-transplant probiotic intake is lacking. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of pre-transplant probiotic administration on long-term results of liver transplantation. This was secondary analysis of a randomized trial. Patients were randomized to receive either 4-strain probiotic or placebo before liver transplantation. Five year graft survival was set as the primary end-point. Secondary end-points comprised serum bilirubin and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration, international normalized ratio (INR), serum transaminases and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) activity. Study group comprised 44 patients, of whom 21 received probiotics and 23 received placebo with 5-year graft survival of 81.0% and 87.0%, respectively (p = 0.591). Patients in the probiotic arm exhibited lower INR (p = 0.001) and CRP (p = 0.030) over the first 6 post-transplant months. In the absence of hepatitis B or C virus infection, pre-transplant administration of probiotics also reduced aspartate transaminase activity (p = 0.032). In the intervention arm, patients receiving probiotics for under and over 30 days had 5-year graft survival rates of 100% and 66.7%, respectively (p = 0.061). Duration of probiotic intake > 30 days was additionally associated with increased INR (p = 0.031), GGT (p = 0.032) and a tendency towards increased bilirubin (p = 0.074) over first 6 post-transplant months. Pre-transplant administration of probiotics has mild positive influence on 6-month allograft function, yet should not exceed 30 days due to potential negative effects on long-term outcomes. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01735591).

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Female
  • Graft Survival / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • Liver Diseases / pathology
  • Liver Diseases / surgery*
  • Liver Function Tests
  • Liver Transplantation / methods*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Preoperative Care*
  • Probiotics / administration & dosage*

Associated data

  • ClinicalTrials.gov/NCT01735591