[Living donor liver transplantation].

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Transplantation Surgery
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is a vital alternative to deceased donor liver transplantation.
• Graft selection is crucial for both recipient outcomes and donor safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the principles of graft selection in living donor liver transplantation.
• To discuss donor risks and contraindications for LDLT.

Main Methods:

• Review of established surgical practices in LDLT.
• Analysis of donor outcomes based on graft type (right lobe vs. left lateral segment).

Main Results:

• Right lobe grafts are preferred for adult recipients; left lateral segments are used for pediatric recipients.
• Right lobectomies carry higher postoperative mortality and morbidity for donors compared to left lateral sectionectomies.
• LDLT outcomes are comparable to cadaveric transplants in experienced centers.

Conclusions:

• Graft selection in LDLT must balance recipient needs with donor safety.
• Elevated BMI and hemostatic/thrombotic disorders are primary contraindications for living liver donation.