Liver transplantation: Surgical aspects

Liver transplantation (LT) is now a well-accepted treatment method for end-stage liver disease and acute liver failure. It is also one of the most expensive treatments. With the advances in technical skills, management of postoperative complications and improvements in immunosuppressive drugs, liver transplantation is the standard treatment for many patients with chronic liver disease. For patients who successfully undergo LT, the probability of long-term graft and recipient survival is generally excellent, with a high likelihood of return to a relatively normal lifestyle. Indications for LT have increased over the last few years and according to the European Liver Transplant Registry, 93 634 LT were performed in Europe till 2010. Until recently Latvia was the last country in Europe, where LT was not performed. This article will review current indications, contraindications, procedure of operation and postoperative care in LT as well as give a brief insight into the first liver transplantation done in Latvia.