| Theme |
Liver Transplantation -- Current Status and Perspective |
| Title |
Current Status of Cadaveric Liver Transplantation in Japan |
| Author |
Tomohiro Tanaka |
Organ Transplantation Service, The University of Tokyo Hospital |
| Author |
Yasuhiko Sugawara |
Organ Transplantation Service, The University of Tokyo Hospital / Artificial Organ and Transplantation Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo |
| Author |
Norihiro Kokudo |
Organ Transplantation Service, The University of Tokyo Hospital / Artificial Organ and Transplantation Surgery Division, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo |
| [ Summary ] |
Since the law regarding organ donation after brain death was modified in 2010, the number of the cadaveric liver transplants has increased to approximately 40 cases per year in Japan. Accordingly, more patients with liver disease have applied to be on the waiting list for cadaveric liver transplantation. However, the number of cadaveric donors is still not adequate to replace living donors for liver transplantation. Community hospitals and transplant centers, as well as external committees must evaluate indications for cadaveric liver transplantation, The Japan Organ Transplant Network (JOT) deals with organ allocations nationwide and plays quite an important role in the process of cadaveric liver transplantation. The Japanese organ allocation system for liver transplantation consists of 5 categories. The first is primarily for patients with fulminant hepatic failure. This system is unique in its lack of additional priority being given to patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. The overall survival rate for post cadaveric liver transplantation in Japan is similar to that for post living donor liver transplantation. It is similar to rates for cadaveric liver transplantation in Western countries. Rigorous pre-transplant evaluation and meticulous follow ups while patients are on the waiting list are keys to successful cadaveric liver transplantation. |