Prognostic value of ultrasound in early arterial complications post liver transplant

Abstract

Liver transplantation is the primary therapeutic intervention for end-stage liver disease. However, vascular complications, particularly those involving the hepatic artery, pose significant risks to patients. The clinical manifestations associated with early arterial complications following liver transplantation are often nonspecific. Without timely intervention, these complications can result in graft failure or patient mortality. Therefore, early diagnosis and the formulation of an optimal treatment plan are imperative. Ultrasound examination remains the predominant imaging modality for detecting complications post liver transplantation. This article comprehensively reviews common causes and clinical presentations of early hepatic artery complications in the post-transplantation period and delineates abnormal sonographic findings for accurate diagnosis of these conditions. Overall, ultrasound offers the advantages of convenience, safety, effectiveness, and non-invasiveness. It enables real-time, dynamic, and precise evaluation, making it the preferred diagnostic method for post-liver transplantation assessments.