[Liver transplantation, vascular complications, role of imaging, percutaneous therapeutic possibilities]

Abstract

Duplex Doppler ultrasound should be the first investigation when a vascular complication is suspected. Serial examinations may increase sensitivity. Color imaging enhances identification of small vessels and increases specificity. Angiography is not necessary unless an pseudoaneurysm is suspected. When duplex Doppler ultrasound is abnormal, angiography is performed to evaluate the possibility of treatment. Endovascular therapeutic procedures appear to have a limited field of application in comparison to percutaneous biliary procedures. Hemostatic embolization or dilatation of vascular strictures can be used either as definitive treatment or while waiting for a new graft to be performed under better conditions.