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Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Porcine Liver Transplantation Without Veno-Venous Bypass As an Extended Criteria Donor Model
Published on: August 17, 2022
Primary nonfunction in liver transplantation: a single-center experience
C B Taner1, V Bathala, J H Nguyen
1Department of Transplantation, Division of Transplantation Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida 32224, USA.
Abstract:
Primary nonfunction (PNF) after liver transplantation is life threatening. In recent review of data from Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients on liver transplantations between 2002 and 2004, the rate of PNF was 5.8%. In this study, our aim was to review the incidence and outcome of PNF at our transplant center. From February 1998 through December 2007, 1679 liver transplants were performed. There were 24 PNF (1.4%) in 22 patients. The 6- and 12-month patient survival rates were 72.2% and 63.3%, respectively. Our results demonstrate a low incidence of PNF at our center. However, the patient survival outcome remains poor. Future investigations to improve survival among liver transplant recipients with PNF are essential.
Insights
Primary nonfunction (PNF) after liver transplantation is a serious complication. This study found a low PNF incidence (1.4%) at our center, but patient survival remains poor, necessitating further research.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Transplantation Surgery
- Clinical Outcomes Research
Background:
- Primary nonfunction (PNF) is a life-threatening complication following liver transplantation.
- Previous data (2002-2004) reported a PNF rate of 5.8% in liver transplant recipients.
- Improving outcomes for PNF remains a critical challenge in liver transplantation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and outcomes of primary nonfunction (PNF) in liver transplant recipients at a single transplant center.
- To evaluate patient survival rates associated with PNF.
- To identify areas for future research to enhance survival post-liver transplantation.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of liver transplant data from February 1998 to December 2007.
- Analysis of 1679 liver transplant procedures performed during the study period.
- Calculation of PNF incidence and patient survival rates at 6 and 12 months.
Main Results:
- A total of 24 cases of PNF (1.4%) were identified in 22 patients.
- The 6-month patient survival rate for PNF was 72.2%.
- The 12-month patient survival rate for PNF was 63.3%.
Conclusions:
- This center achieved a low incidence of primary nonfunction (PNF) after liver transplantation.
- Despite the low incidence, patient survival outcomes for PNF remain suboptimal.
- Further research is essential to improve survival rates for liver transplant recipients experiencing PNF.
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