[Diagnostic imaging after liver transplantation]

Area of Science:

• Hepatology and Transplant Surgery
• Medical Imaging
• Gastroenterology

Context:

• Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is a vital treatment for end-stage liver disease.
• Postoperative complications significantly impact patient morbidity and mortality.
• Timely identification and management of complications are paramount for successful OLT outcomes.

Purpose:

• To review the spectrum of postoperative complications following orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT).
• To evaluate the utility of various imaging modalities in diagnosing these complications.
• To highlight the importance of early detection for graft survival and patient prognosis.

Summary:

• Vascular complications, particularly hepatic artery thrombosis, are a leading cause of graft loss after OLT.
• Biliary tract issues such as sludge, leaks, and strictures are common and often require intervention.
• Immunosuppression increases the risk of post-transplant malignancies, necessitating vigilant surveillance.
• Duplex Doppler sonography and cholangiography are primary diagnostic tools, with CT, MRI, and angiography used for complex cases.

Impact:

• Improved diagnostic strategies for postoperative OLT complications.
• Enhanced graft survival rates through early detection and intervention.
• Reduced patient morbidity and mortality associated with liver transplantation.