Liver transplantation for acute fulminant hepatic failure

Abstract

Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) remains the only option for progressive acute fulminant hepatic failure (FHF). The overall one-year survival is approximately 58% versus 75% for all patients undergoing OLT. Nevertheless, this is superior to the results obtained with medical management alone, which carries a mortality of approximately 60-85%. Seven of 32 patients at Hartford Hospital (22%) received liver transplants for acute FHF; the one-year survival was 57%. Four of seven patients are alive with complete neurologic recovery. One case is presented in detail.