Published online Jun 14, 2007. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v13.i22.3128
Revised: March 20, 2007
Accepted: April 4, 2007
Published online: June 14, 2007
AIM: To analyze the clinical manifestations and the effectiveness of therapy in patients with orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT)-associated hepatic artery stenosis (HAS) and non-anastomosis bile duct stricture.
METHODS: Nine cases were diagnosed as HAS and non-anastomosis bile duct stricture. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) was performed in four HAS cases, and expectant treatment in other five HAS cases; percutaneous transhepatic bile drainage, balloon dilation, stent placement were performed in all nine cases.
RESULTS: Diffuse intra- and extra-bile duct stricture was observed in nine cases, which was associated with bile mud siltation and biliary infection. Obstruction of the bile duct was improved obviously or removed. Life span/follow-up period was 13-30 mo after PTA of four HAS cases, 6-23 mo without PTA of other five cases.
CONCLUSION: Progressive, non-anastomosis, and diffuse bile duct stricture are the characteristic manifestations of HAS and non-anastomosis bile duct stricture after OLT. These are often associated with bile mud siltation, biliary infection, and ultimate liver failure. Interventional therapy is significantly beneficial.