Our Pediatric Liver and Kidney Transplant Activities in 2021

Area of Science:

• Pediatric solid-organ transplantation
• Nephrology
• Hepatology

Background:

• Liver and kidney transplants are crucial for children with end-stage organ failure.
• Pediatric solid-organ transplantation requires specialized centers due to surgical complexities.
• This study reviews transplants performed at our center in 2021.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the outcomes of pediatric liver and kidney transplants performed in 2021.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of solid-organ transplantation in young children.
• To highlight the importance of experienced multidisciplinary teams in pediatric transplant care.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of liver and kidney transplants performed between January 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021.
• Data collected included recipient demographics, comorbidities, transplant etiology, donor type, and clinical outcomes.
• Analysis focused on pediatric recipients (under 18 years).

Main Results:

• In 2021, 19 pediatric liver transplants and 12 pediatric kidney transplants were performed.
• Pediatric liver recipients (mean age 3.4 years) primarily had biliary atresia; most grafts were from living related donors. Two recipients died post-transplant.
• Pediatric kidney recipients (mean age 14.1 years) commonly had vesicoureteral reflux; all grafts were from living related donors, and all recipients were discharged successfully.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric solid-organ transplantation, though complex, can achieve successful outcomes at experienced centers.
• Living related donation plays a significant role in pediatric liver and kidney transplantation.
• Careful patient selection and experienced surgical teams are vital for minimizing complications in pediatric transplant recipients.