Adult-to-adult Right Hepatic Lobe Living Donor Liver Transplantation

Abstract

Adult-to-adult right hepatic lobe living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) has rapidly emerged as an accepted treatment option for selected patients with end-stage liver disease. The two most important determinants in patient outcome are the careful selection of recipients, and the technical skill and experience of the surgical team. The most appropriate candidates for LDLT are patients who require an expedited transplant. Also, the candidate must not have significant comorbid conditions that could jeopardize the success of the procedure. The initial outcomes of LDLT recipients are similar to recipients with a cadaveric liver. However, direct comparison may not be possible, because LDLT recipients are currently selected for favorable outcomes. Most LDLT donors are able to undergo right-sided hepatectomy without significant morbidity. However, the risk of death associated with donation is estimated to be 1/300; approximately 20% have a measurable complication.