The devil is in the detail: current management of perioperative surgical complications after liver transplantation

Abstract

Purpose of review: Despite advances in the field, perioperative morbidity is common after liver transplantation. This review examines the current literature to provide up-to-date management of common surgical complications associated with liver transplantation.

Recent findings: Research focuses on problems with anastomoses of the vena cava, portal vein, hepatic artery, and bile ducts. Interventional endoscopic and radiological techniques are used more frequently to avoid reoperation.

Summary: Advances in the management of perioperative surgical complications have focused on minimally invasive measures that successfully treat technical problems with implantation of liver allografts from both living and deceased donors.