Abstract

Background and study aims: Since the introduction of liver transplantation (LTx) in children suffering from liver failure in 1963, many centres around the world have offered this service to children that have no other alternative. The aim of this retrospective study is to analyse the results of paediatric liver transplant in Kuwait over the last decade.

Patients and methods: A retrospective chart review was done involving paediatric patients during the time period of 1995-2004. The information collected included patient demographics, indications for liver transplantation, survival of both patient and allograft, and complications.

Results: A total of 16 cases were found and analysed. The mean age was 3.6years (ranged 5months-17years). There were nine boys and seven girls. The most common indications for LTx were biliary atresia and metabolic liver disease. All the liver transplants were done abroad. There were totally nine deceased donor and seven living related cases. The complications were acute cellular rejection in five, hypertension in two, biliary complications in four, cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in three and post lymphoproliferative disease in two cases. All but one patient are presently alive.

Conclusion: The above information demonstrates that LTx in Kuwati children is safe and improves the quality of life for those that would otherwise have no other alternative.