Hepatic allograft arterialization by means of the gastroduodenal bifurcation (branch patch) as a prognostic factor.

Introduction. Because of the current shortage of cadaveric organs, it is important to determine preoperatively those variables that are readily available, inexpensive, and noninvasive that can predict a higher incidence of hepatic artery thrombosis (HAT). Material and methods. From April 1986 to October 2001, 717 patients underwent 804 liver transplants. All the arterial reconstructions were performed with fine (7-0) monofilament sutures in an interrupted fashion. Two methods were used: group 1, end-to-end arterial anastomosis, and group 11, the gastroduodenal branch patch. Results. After a mean follow-up of 72 (range 3-174) months, HAT was observed in 19 patients (overall incidence 2.4%). End-to-end anastomosis (group 1) was performed in 39.5% (316) of cases, and HAT developed in 14 (4.4%) cases. Branch-patch anastomoses (group 11) were carried out in 60.5% (488) of the patients; the presence of HAT was detected in five cases (1.03%) (P=0.03, P<0.05). A total of 21 variables were selected in the univariate analysis; however, after the multivariate analysis, all but two of the factors lost statistical significance, and these corresponded to the type of arterial reconstruction (gastroduodenal branch patch vs. end-to-end) and the ABO compatibility. Conclusions. Liver transplantation with compatible grafts using branch-patch anastomosis for the arterialization (both manipulative by the transplant team) reduces HAT-derived loss of grafts, with the consequent increase in graft availability and reduced mortality rate on the waiting list.