Thrombotic complications post liver transplantation: Etiology and management

Core Tip

Core Tip: Liver transplantation (LT) is the most widely accepted standard for treatment of end stage liver disease. Despite surgical advancements and improvements in post-operative therapeutic regime, there exists high morbidity and mortality rate due to biliary complications, renal or abdominal malfunction, pulmonary dysfunction as well as thrombotic events. Though vascular complications are seldom post orthotopic LT (OLT), they result in high incidences of morbidity and mortality. Vascular dysfunction post OLT leading to thrombotic event could be either arterial or venous. Its clinical feature depends on its type, presentation (early or late) and time taken for diagnosis. Thrombotic complications are one of the leading causes of the failure of LT. There is very scanty data available on the possible risk factors amongst individuals who develop thrombotic complications post LT. It is extremely important to monitor vascular graft supply and to ensure effective screening of every patient undergoing LT.