Simultaneous liver and kidney transplantation: analysis of a single-center experience

Simultaneous liver and kidney transplantation (SLKT) has been proven to be a favorable treatment for combined renal and hepatic end-stage disease. However, recipients receiving SLKT have a long medical history, poor general condition that is often accompanied by anemia, hypoalbuminemia, coagulopathy, water-electrolyte imbalance and acid-base disorders. This study aimed to explore the indications, surgical techniques, therapeutic experience, prevention and treatment of postoperative complications of SLKT.

The clinical data of 22 SLKTs cases performed at the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from January 2001 to December 2008 were retrospectively studied. Indications for SLKT, surgical techniques, perioperative fluid management, immunosuppressive regimen and experience in prevention and treatment of postoperative complications were analyzed.

All operations were successfully performed. Postoperative complications occurred in 13 cases (59.1%), including pleural effusions (7), intra-abdominal bleeding (2), biliary complications (2), repeated upper gastrointestinal bleeding (1), and acute liver graft rejection (1). All complications were treated conservatively. In this study, there were five deaths during follow-up, in which three perioperative deaths occurred due to serious conditions. Mortality at 3 months was 13.6%. The one and three year patient survival rate was 81.3% and 73.9% respectively.

SLKT is an effective therapy for end-stage liver disease with chronic renal failure or severe damage to renal function. It is a complex surgical procedure, causing a large disturbance of circulation and fluid balance, and more postoperative complications. The SLKT surgical techniques selected are based on the experience of surgeons, the anatomy of the recipient and primary diseases. It is essential to use the correct perioperative fluid management, reasonable immunosuppressive regimen, and prevention and treatment of postoperative infections, to improve the long-term patient survival after SLKT.