Caval anastomosis in liver transplantation: prospective experience of Verona liver transplantation program.

ABSTRACT

Caval anastomosis in liver transplantation has been modified to avoid outflow complications. Classic cava replacement is rarely indicated; most liver transplantation teams use a piggy-back (PB) technique. At the start of our liver transplantation program, we opted for a latero-lateral (L-L) caval anastomosis. In our prospective experience, the L-L caval anastamosis was safe and feasible in all 24 adult patients. No vascular complications occurred. Graft and patient survival rates were both 96% at 11 months follow-up.