Management of biliary tract complications after orthotopic liver transplantation

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Despite improved survival, biliary complications remain a significant cause of morbidity following orthotopic liver transplantation. The aim of this study was to review the incidence, treatment and optimum management pathway of biliary complications at the Scottish Liver Transplant Unit. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patient data were collected prospectively onto a database at the Scottish Liver Transplant Unit with review of hospital records for validation. RESULTS: A total of 379 consecutive orthotopic liver transplants were performed in 333 adult patients between November 1992 and September 2001. Biliary complications occurred in 55 grafts (51 patients) (14.6%) and their incide..