Ann Acad Med Singap
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Ann Acad Med Singap · Sep 2021
ReviewStrategies for a successful hepatic artery anastomosis in liver transplantation: A review of 51 cases.
Hepatic artery reconstruction is a critical aspect of liver transplantation. The microsurgeon faces several challenges when reconstructing the hepatic artery-the donor hepatic artery stalk is short and often a poor match for the usually hypertrophic recipient vessels. Previous inflammation impedes vessel dissection, and recipient vessels have a tendency to delaminate with manipulation. We review 51 consecutive liver transplantations to highlight these problems and propose strategies for a successful reconstruction of the hepatic artery. ⋯ Hepatic artery thrombosis after liver transplantation is poorly tolerated. The challenges of hepatic artery reconstruction in liver transplantation are related to vessel quality and length. The use of microsurgical technique, appropriate recipient vessel selection, minimisation of vessel manipulation with modified instruments, variation in anastomosis techniques, and use of radial artery interpositional grafts are useful strategies to maximise the chances of success.