Interventional treatment of lumen-reconstruction-related complications after pediatric living-donor liver transplantation

Abstract

Interventional radiology has recently been reported as an effective means of treating complications after liver transplantation. In children, however, the number of such reports is relatively small. In addition, there is ongoing discussion regarding the best interventional devices and methods for specific complications. The aim of this study was to determine the value of interventional treatment for vessel and bile duct complications after pediatric living-donor liver transplantation. Six cases with lumen-reconstruction-related complications after liver transplantation received intervention. Three cases had hepatic artery thrombosis, one had portal vein stenosis, and two had bilioenteric anastomotic stenosis. Catheter-directed thrombolysis was used to treat cases with hepatic artery thrombosis; balloon dilation and stent placement were used for portal vein stenosis; balloon dilation and drainage were used for bilioenteric anastomotic stenosis. All interventions were performed successfully, and treatment efficacy was 100%. Except for one death from multiple organ failure, all other cases survived through follow-up, which lasted up to 18months. No case had intervention-related complication. Interventional treatment is safe and effective, and can be the first choice for the treatment of complications associated with pediatric living-donor liver transplantation.