A new pediatric liver transplantation program in Southern Germany. the Heidelberg experience

Research output: Contribution to journalComment/DebateContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Guido Engelmann - , Heidelberg University  (Author)
  • Jan Schmidt - , Heidelberg University  (Author)
  • Juergen Weitz - , University Hospital Heidelberg (Author)
  • Christa Flechtenmacher - , Heidelberg University  (Author)
  • Jens Peter Schenk - , Heidelberg University  (Author)
  • Markus A. Weigand - , Heidelberg University  (Author)
  • Henning Lenhartz - , Catholic Childrens Hospital Wilhelmstift (Author)
  • Daniel Wenning - , Heidelberg University  (Author)
  • Stefan Holland-Cunz - , Heidelberg University  (Author)
  • Georg F. Hoffmann - , Heidelberg University  (Author)
  • Eike Martin - , Heidelberg University  (Author)
  • Markus W. Büchler - , Heidelberg University  (Author)
  • Claus Peter Schmitt - , Heidelberg University  (Author)
  • Martin Burdelski - , Kiel University (Author)
  • Jochen Meyburg - , Heidelberg University  (Author)

Abstract

pLTx is a highly complex procedure. It can only be performed safely by experienced teams. Starting a new pLTx program in a country with established centers must therefore avoid a learning curve. We have initiated a liver transplantation program for children in 2003. Medical standards were defined by a team of surgeons, pediatricians, radiologists, anesthesiologists, and pathologists before the first transplantation. An external expert in the field of pLTx supervised the whole process. In a pilot phase, six children weighing more than 20 kg were successfully transplanted. Following this series, the clinical pathways were re-evaluated, and the program was opened for children of all age groups. Between 2003 and 2008, 32 children received 34 organs. Sixty-eight percent of patients received a split-liver, 26% a full size organ, and 6% a reduced size graft. Four LRLTx were performed. Patient survival rate was 91%. We conclude that a new pLTx program can be established without a significant learning curve regarding mortality if a strict strategy of team-building is followed. In the pilot phase, small children and infants have to be referred and transplanted in an established center. An interdisciplinary team of specialists closely working together is the key for sustained success.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)12-18
Number of pages7
JournalPediatric transplantation : the official publication of the International Pediatric Transplant Association
Volume14
Issue number1
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2010
Peer-reviewedYes
Externally publishedYes

External IDs

PubMed 19793222

Keywords

Keywords

  • Child, Liver transplantation, New program