Liver transplantation from donation after cardiac death (report of 3 cases)

Objective To summarize our experience in the liver transplantation from the donation after cardiac death (DCD).Methods The livers from three DCD donors (2 cases of brain trauma and 1 case of cerebral hemorrhage) were harvested according to the Guidelines for Donation after Cardiac Death in China.These grafts were orthotopically transplanted into three recipients including 2 cases of decompensative hepatic cirrhosis and 1 case of primary liver cancer.The warm ischemic time ranged from 7.5 to 10 min and the cold ischemic time was 4.5,8.2 and 6.5 h respectively.Postoperative immunosuppressive regimens included prednisone,FK506 and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF).Antibiotics and anticoagulatants were used accordingly.Results All of the 3 recipients obtained normal liver function within 3 weeks since the grafts were implanted without PNF,thrombosis and rejection.No postoperative complications occurred in 3 recipients during the follow-up period of 2 to 9 months with normal liver function.Conclusion The liver transplant from DCD donor showed good results in our center.Chinese group Ⅲ of DCD donor,UW score above the middle level and the short warm ischemic time are three keys ensuring the success of the liver transplant from DCD donors. Key words: Cardiac death;  Tissue donors;  Liver transplantation