title: Simultaneous Liver-Kidney Transplantation.
abstract: In 2014, simultaneous liver kidney transplants (SLK) accounted for 8.2 % of all liver transplants performed in the USA. Prior to introduction of the model of end stage liver disease (MELD) system, SLK accounted for 2.5 % in 2001 and only 1.7 % in 1990. Transplant centers have struggled to balance the moral and ethical aspects of SLK in the setting of organ scarcity with an algorithm that best qualifies patients for such treatment options. Few centers have even ventured into DCD territory for SLK. Advancement in immunosuppression protocols and treatment of HCV and HIV have impacted SLK over the years. Simulation modeling has allowed us to analyze the future impact of our decisions that are made today. All of these advancements have given, and will continue to give new perspectives to SLK. The purpose of this review article is to highlight these advances and bring to light the studies that have made this transplant option successful.
authors.affiliation: Methodist/University of Tennessee Transplant Institute, 1211 Union Ave. Suite 340, Memphis, TN 38104 USA.
authors.forename: Vichin
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Puri
authors.affiliation: Methodist/University of Tennessee Transplant Institute, 1211 Union Ave. Suite 340, Memphis, TN 38104 USA.
authors.forename: James
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Eason
keywords: Combined liver-kidney transplant; Kidney transplant; Liver transplant; MELD score; Multi-organ transplant; OPTN; Simultaneous liver-kidney transplant