Regeneration of a transplanted liver after right hepatic lobectomy.
Liver regeneration has been described after heterotopic liver transplantation, small-for-size orthotopic liver transplantation and reduced-size liver transplantation. In this report, we document the regenerative response of a whole liver transplant to major resection for the first time. A right hepatic lobectomy for liver ischemia was performed in a 30-year-old female after transplantation for autoimmune disease of the liver. Volumetric analysis of computed tomography (CT) scans revealed a preoperative liver volume of 1,961 mL, whereas analysis of the 6-week posthepatectomy CT scan showed a volume of 1,820 mL. Factors influencing regeneration in the setting of a liver transplant include rejection, ischemia/thrombosis, infection, or cyclosporine hepatotrophic/hepatotoxic effects. These factors, balanced with the intrinsic ability of hepatocytes to achieve a standard liver volume, determine the extent of regeneration.
Chari
R S
RS
Department of Surgery, Durham Veteran's Administration Medical Center, NC, USA.
Baker
M E
ME
Sue
S R
SR
Meyers
W C
WC
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006498:Hepatectomy; D006801:Humans; D008115:Liver Regeneration; D016031:Liver Transplantation