[Vascular Problem Constellations and the Operational Tactical Approaches in Post-Mortem Liver Transplantations]

In liver transplantation, vascular problems may occur in the donor as well as in the recipient and during the donor operation as well as during the transplantation. They have a major influence on the outcome of the transplantation. In addition to anatomic variants, arteriosclerotic vascular diseases, complications from portal hypertension, vascular lesions from mistakes during the donor operation, complications from interventions and bridging procedures need to be identified and treated. In addition to duplex sonography and contrast enhanced computed tomography, invasive vascular diagnostics (digital subtraction angiography) are established for diagnostic purposes. Problem constellations should be identified prior to transplantation and the technique of the donor operation and the transplantation should be adjusted accordingly. Problems that are diagnosed after transplantation may be treated interventionally or with open surgery. In a number of cases, vascular complications lead to loss of the transplant or death of the recipient from post-operative organ failure.