Vibration-Controlled Transient Elastography-Based Parameters Predict Clinical Outcomes in Liver Transplant...

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Transplant Surgery
• Non-invasive Liver Assessment

Background:

• Vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) is utilized for risk stratification in liver transplant (LT) recipients.
• Limited data exist on the direct correlation between VCTE parameters and clinical outcomes post-LT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between VCTE-derived measurements and clinical outcomes in adult LT recipients.
• To evaluate the predictive value of liver stiffness measurement (LSM) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) for mortality, graft cirrhosis, and myocardial infarction (MI).

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 362 adult LT recipients with successful VCTE between 2015-2022 was analyzed.
• Advanced fibrosis was defined as LSM ≥10.5 kPa; hepatic steatosis as CAP ≥270 dB/m.
• Outcomes including all-cause mortality, MI, and graft cirrhosis were assessed using competing risks analysis.

Main Results:

• Elevated LSM (≥10.5 kPa) was found in 18% and elevated CAP (≥270 dB/m) in 45% of recipients.
• High LSM independently predicted all-cause mortality (HR 1.97) and new-onset cirrhosis (HR 6.74).
• Higher CAP values independently predicted an increased risk of MI (HR 4.14).

Conclusions:

• VCTE parameters, including LSM and CAP, are significantly associated with clinical outcomes in LT recipients.
• These VCTE-based parameters demonstrate potential for integration into clinical risk-stratification strategies.
• Utilizing VCTE may help improve patient management and outcomes following liver transplantation.