Abstract
Between December 1983 and August 1986, 84 children were assessed for possible liver transplant. 18, mainly infants with biliary atresia, were not accepted because of features which made successful trasnplantation unlikely. 4 children were withdrawn from the programme by their parents. 9 died before a donor of suitable size or compatible blood group could be found. 9 await transplantation, 9 have been accepted for liver transplantation but are at present sufficiently well for this to be postponed. 35, aged 7mnths-16yrs, had liver grafts. Of these, 17 had biliary atresia, 5 fulminant or subacute hepatic failure, 3 malignant liver tumours and 2 metabolic disease. 15 died, 9 in the first 2 months mainly from primary graft failure or vascular thrombosis, later deaths being due to rejection, infection or dissemination of malignant disease. 2 died of disease in other organs with a normally functioning transplanted liver. 2 of the survivors have had a second liver transplant. 3 have significant hepatobiliary problems which may require retransplantation. The majority of survivors are engaged in normal activities for their age, growing and developing satisfactorily with normal biochemical tests of liver function & complete regression of cirrhosis. Their excellent quality of live is encouraging. Lack of donors, particularly for young infants & prevention of post-operative rejection & infection are continuing problems.
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Pett, S., Pelham, A., Tizard, J. et al. 14. LIVER TRANSPLANTATION – CAMBRIDGE/KING'S SERIES. Pediatr Res 22, 98 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198707000-00035
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198707000-00035