Split liver transplantation - King's College Hospital experience

Background The purpose of split liver transplantation is to increase the source of pediatric grafts without compromising the adult donor pool. Early results have been discouraging because of technical complications and selection of poor risk patients. Methods The results of a single center experience of 41 split liver transplantations were analyzed. Patient and graft survival and complications related to the technique were analyzed. Results Patient and graft survival for the whole group was 90% and 88% respectively at a median follow up of 12 months (range 6-70 months). Patient and graft survival for the right lobe graft was 95% and the left lateral segment 86% and 82% respectively. Four patients died, of which two of the patients were first two splits following technical complications. Two others died, one from cerebral lymphoma and the other of multiorgan failure secondary to sepsis. One patient has been retransplanted for chronic biliary sepsis. Conclusion Split liver transplantation has now become an acceptable treatment option for both adult and pediatric recipients with end stage liver disease. Right lobe recipients are not disadvantaged by the procedure. Good results can be achieved with better patient selection and by the use of good quality organs.