Procedures to prevent development of small-for-size syndrome during living donor liver transplantation

Objective Small-for-size syndrome (SFSS) is a common and serious problem after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) of small grafts.To prevent SFSS by selecting large enough graft,enlarging outflow tract,and controlling the portal vein pressure and flow during LDLT.Methods 113 adult LDLT recipients were reviewed from Dec.1,2007 to Nov.30,2009.Enlarging the portal outflow tract by the incision of the anterior rim of the orifice of the right hepatic vein (RHV),modificating graft inflow,and selecting large enough graft were done to prevent SFSS.The relationship between the patients' GRWR,portal vein flow,portal vein pressure and the occurrence of SFSS was analyzed.Results All patients received the outflow orifice modification.The portal vein pressure and the portal vein flow were decreased after spleen artery ligation.No SFSS ocurred.Conclusion Selecting large enough liver graft,and enlarging portal vein inflow and outflow were safe for the LDLT recipients,and can effectively prevent SFSS. Key words: Liver transplantation; Living donors; Small for size syndrome; Portal vein