Primary Nonfunction and Early Allograft Dysfunction after Liver Transplantation

Abstract

Background: Despite continuous progress in the field of liver transplantation, considerable proportion of patients still suffer from the postoperative graft dysfunction. Clinically, it presents as early allograft dysfunction (EAD), and its more severe form defined as primary nonfunction (PNF). Posttransplant liver dysfunction translates into significantly worse treatment outcomes.

Summary: Both entities are multifactorial, with donor (graft), recipient, and procedure-related factors playing the key roles. Ischemia-reperfusion injury is a major driver of their development. So far, various noninvasive (pharmacological) and invasive strategies have been tested to mitigate its negative effects. This article pre-sents the current approach to diagnosis, prediction, and management of EAD and PNF.

Key messages: Different pharmacological interventions may be considered to improve graft function after liver transplantation. Machine perfusion seems to be the most effective method at the moment.

Keywords: Graft dysfunction; Liver transplantation; Primary nonfunction; Retransplantation; Risk factors.