THE ROLE OF ULTRASOUND IN IDENTIFYING VASCULAR COMPLICATIONS IN LIVER TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS

Abstract

Introduction. Liver transplantation is a complex procedure that requires careful monitoring of possible complications. One of the key methods for diagnosing postoperative vascular disorders is ultrasound (USG), which allows timely detection of complications and measures to eliminate them. Ultrasound is a non-invasive, accessible and highly informative method, which makes it an important tool in post-transplantation management of patients. Aim of the study. To evaluate the role of ultrasound in the diagnosis of vascular complications in liver transplant recipients.
Materials and methods. Ninety-three patients who underwent liver transplantation from June 2013 to February 2024 were included in the study. Comprehensive ultrasound including B-mode and Doppler study was used to evaluate vascular complications. Main parameters: patency and vascular anatomy, blood flow in the hepatic artery, portal and hepatic veins. The results were analyzed using EpiInfo program. Results. In 42 patients (45.16%), vascular complications were identified, including hepatic artery thrombosis (11 cases, 26.19%), portal vein stenosis (1 case, 2.38%), and portal vein thrombosis (4 cases, 9.52%). Ultrasound demonstrated high accuracy and sensitivity in diagnosing vascular thrombosis and stenosis (100% for hepatic artery and portal vein thrombosis). Conclusions. Ultrasound is an effective method for diagnosing vascular complications after liver transplantation. High sensitivity and accuracy make it an indispensable tool in early diagnosis and monitoring of patients, which contributes to the successful outcome of transplantation.