Imaging of liver transplantation

- Imaging plays a pivotal role in the preoperative and postoperative periods of liver transplantation (LT).
- Ultrasonography and computed tomography are key imaging techniques for evaluating liver parenchyma and vascular structures.
- Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography is the main technique for the study of the biliary tree.
- Preoperative imaging contributes to proper selection of recipients and living donors.
- Postoperative imaging aims to early detection of graft threatening complications in order to institute prompt therapy.

Liver transplantation (LT) is the treatment of choice for end-stage chronic liver disease, fulminant liver failure and early stage hepatocellular carcinoma. As discussed in this review, state-of-the-art imaging modalities including ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play a pivotal role in the selection of patients and donors, as well as in early detection of those complications at risk of impairing graft function and/or survival. We also illustrate main imaging findings related to the wide spectrum of clinical problems raised by LT.