[Hepatic transplantation for cirrhosis]

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Transplantation Surgery

Background:

• Cirrhosis is a leading cause of liver transplantation, accounting for 60% of procedures.
• Primary causes include chronic viral hepatitis B and C, and alcoholism.
• Severe cirrhosis patients are candidates regardless of etiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the indications for liver transplantation in patients with cirrhosis.
• To discuss the criteria for patient selection.
• To review the outcomes of liver transplantation for cirrhosis.

Main Methods:

• Review of current clinical guidelines and literature on liver transplantation for cirrhosis.
• Analysis of patient selection criteria, including Child-Pugh's stage C and specific complications.
• Evaluation of post-transplantation survival rates and patient rehabilitation.

Main Results:

• Liver transplantation is indicated for patients with a life expectancy of one year or less, primarily those with Child-Pugh's stage C liver failure.
• Intractable ascites and spontaneous encephalopathy are also indications.
• Isolated portal hypertension is not a transplantation indication; hepatocellular carcinoma remains debated.

Conclusions:

• Liver transplantation offers satisfactory results for severe cirrhosis, with 5-year survival rates around 70%.
• Patient rehabilitation is typically excellent following the procedure.
• Careful patient selection based on established criteria is essential for successful outcomes.