Transjugular Liver Biopsy Following Orthotopic Whole Liver Transplantation: Challenges and Solutions. A Pictorial Essay

Abstract

Rejection is a common problem after orthotopic liver transplant. The tissue is required for the rapid diagnosis of rejection. Many of these patients have contraindications to percutaneous liver biopsies. Transjugular liver biopsies in patients with liver transplants can be very challenging due to the modified venous anatomy. This article will review the different types of surgical venous anastomosis in patients with whole liver transplants as well as the challenges and techniques to overcome these and successfully perform a transjugular liver biopsy.

Keywords

• transjugular liver biopsy
• orthotopic liver transplant
• biopsy