Ultrasound Imaging in Liver Transplantation

Liver transplantation is the most accepted and successful method of treating end-stage liver disease secondary to any primary etiology. In India live related donor transplantation is done most commonly due to shortage cadaveric livers. Ultrasonography (US) being the most easily available/portable, inexpensive and radiation free imaging modality becomes naturally the first choice of Imaging for pre, per and post operative detection and follow-up of early and delayed complications. Vascular and biliary complications, abnormal focal and diffuse parenchymal changes and neoplastic disease in the Graft as well as collections/effusion and their nature are well demonstrated with the high end ultrasound Colour Doppler machines. Impeccable knowledge of the anatomy and surgical technique of liver transplantation as well as awareness of normal and abnormal US and Doppler findings in transplanted liver is of utmost importance in being able to detect of complications and prevent misdiagnosis.