Cavoportal hemitransposition in liver transplantation: a new technique.

OBJECTIVE

To introduce a new surgical technique--cavoportal hemitransposition in liver transplantation.

METHODS

Since Tzakis first reported liver transplantation with cavoportal hemitransposition in the presence of diffuse portal vein thrombosis in 1998, five relevant research papers have been published, in which a total of 23 cases were treated.

RESULTS

Of the 23 cases, 11 underwent conventionally cavoportal anastomosis as an end-to-end anastomosis, 8 renoportal anastomosis, and 4 end-to-side anastomosis preceded by piggyback. Eight patients died after operation. Fifteen patients are still alive with normal liver and kinase function, with a longest follow-up of 37 months. They enjoy a normal life without dietary or other restriction.

CONCLUSION

Portal vein thrombosis is no longer an absolute contraindication to liver transplantation. This new technique is useful and reliable for liver transplantation.