Bowel perforation after paediatric orthotopic liver transplantation.
Bowel perforation is a well-recognized complication following orthotopic liver transplantation. Of 194 paediatric liver transplantations performed in our hospital, 13 patients (6.7%) developed bowel perforation post-transplantation. Contributory factors included previous operation, steroid therapy and viral infection. The incidence was higher in children who underwent transplantation for biliary atresia after a previous Kasai portoenterostomy. Seven patients (53% of this group) reperforated. Diagnosis may be difficult and a high index of suspicion is needed.
Liver Transplant Surgical Service, King's College Hospital, London, UK. hector.vilca_melendez@kcl.ac.uk
H
H
Vilca Melendez
V
V
Vougas
P
P
Muiesan
P
P
Andreani
G
G
Mieli-Vergani
M
M
Rela
N D
ND
Heaton
D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007416:Intestinal Perforation / Q000209:etiology*; D016031:Liver Transplantation / Q000009:adverse effects*