Demonstrating the Non-inferiority of a Plastic Surgery Microscopic Technique for Hepatic Artery Anastomosis in Pediatric Liver Transplant: A Single-Institution Study

Before advancements in liver transplantation, conditions such as acute liver failure, decompensated liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma were associated with poor prognosis. Orthotopic liver transplantation has since emerged as a curative treatment. Despite its benefits, liver transplantation can lead to complications, including hepatic artery thrombosis (HAT), which is especially significant in pediatric patients. This study evaluates the utility of microsurgical anastomosis by plastic surgeons in reducing postoperative HAT compared to standard loupe-assisted anastomosis performed by transplant surgeons.