Vascular complications after live donor renal transplantation: study of risk factors and effects on graft and patient survival

Impact of early surgical complications on kidney transplant outcomes

BACKGROUND

Kidney transplantation (KT) improves clinical outcomes of patients with end stage renal disease. Little has been reported on the impact of early post-operative surgical complications (SC) on long-term clinical outcomes following KT. We sought to determine the impact of vascular complications, urological complications, surgical site complications, and peri-graft collections within 30 days of transplantation on patient survival, graft function, and hospital readmissions.

METHODS

We conducted a single-centre, observational cohort study examining adult patients (≥ 18 years) who received a kidney transplant from living and deceased donors between January 1st, 2005 and December 31st, 2015 with follow-up until December 31st, 2016 (n = 1,334). Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed with Cox proportional hazards models to analyze the outcomes of SC in the early post-operative period after KT.

RESULTS

The cumulative probability of SC within 30 days of transplant was 25%, the most common SC being peri-graft collections (66.8%). Multivariable analyses showed significant relationships between Clavien Grade 1 SC and death with graft function (HR 1.78 [95% CI: 1.11, 2.86]), and between Clavien Grades 3 to 4 and hospital readmissions (HR 1.95 [95% CI: 1.37, 2.77]).

CONCLUSIONS

Early SC following KT are common and have a significant influence on long-term patient outcomes.

Open bypass revascularisation for endovascular-resistant transplant renal artery stenosis secondary to mechanical renal artery kinking

Transplant renal artery stenosis (TRAS) represents a significant vascular complication subsequent to renal transplantation. This pathology is associated with grave implications including graft dysfunction and mortality. Early identification and therapeutical intervention are imperative for preserving graft longevity and achieving optimal clinical outcomes. We detail the case of a male in his 20s, following renal transplantation, who encountered recurrent TRAS, aetiologically linked to mechanical arterial kinking. Initial management using endovascular techniques yielded insufficient resolution. Consequently, the persistence of endovascular-resistant stenosis necessitated a surgical bypass intervention using the great saphenous vein, granting a 2-year period devoid of restenosis. The existing literature emphasises the indispensability of discerning the appropriate juncture for transitioning from endovascular to surgical management in TRAS cases. The robustness and durability of bypass grafts present an efficacious therapeutical strategy in contemporaneous practice.

Impact of Transplantation Timing on Renal Graft Survival Outcomes and Perioperative Complications

Nighttime organ transplantation aims to decrease cold ischemia duration, yet conflicting data exists on its impact on graft function and perioperative complications. This multicenter TRANSPLANT'AFUF study including 2,854 patients, transplanted between 1 January 2011, and 31 December 2022, investigated nighttime kidney transplantation's impact (8:00 p.m.-8:00 a.m.) versus daytime (8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.) on surgical complications and graft survival. Overall, 2043 patients (71.6%) underwent daytime graft, while 811 (28.4%) underwent nighttime graft. No impact was observed of timing of graft surgery on graft survival with a median survival of 98 months and 132 months for daytime and nightime grafting, respectively (p = 0.1749). Moreover, no impact was observed on early surgical complications (Clavien I-II = 20.95% for DG and 20.10% for NG; Clavien III-IV-V = 15.42% for DG and 12.94% for NG; p = 0.0889) and late complications (>30 days) (Clavien I-II = 6.80% for DG and 5.67% for NG; Clavien III-IV-V = 12.78% for DG and 12.82% for NG; p = 0.2444). Noteworthy, we found a significant increase in Maastricht 3 donors' rates in nighttime transplantation (5.53% DG vs. 21.45% NG; p < 0.0001). In conclusion, nighttime kidney transplantation did not impact early/late surgical complications nor graft survival.

Pediatric kidney transplants with multiple renal arteries show no increased risk of complications compared to single renal artery grafts

Background

Kidney allografts with multiple renal arteries (MRA) are not infrequent and have been historically associated with a higher risk of developing vascular and urologic complications. Reports of kidney transplantation using MRA allografts in the pediatric population remain scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate if transplantation of allografts with MRA with a surgical intent of creating a single arterial inflow using vascular reconstruction techniques when required, and without the routine use of surgical drains or ureteral stents, is associated with an increased risk of complications when compared to single renal artery (SRA) grafts.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed all pediatric renal transplant recipients performed by a single surgeon at our center between January 2015 and June 2022. Donor and recipient demographics, intraoperative data, and recipient outcomes were included. Recipients were divided into two groups based on SRA vs. MRA. Baseline variables were described using frequency distributions for categorical variables and means and standard errors for continuous variables. Comparisons of those distributions between the two groups were performed using standard chi-squared and t-tests. Time-to-event distributions were compared using the log-rank test.

Results

Forty-nine pediatric transplant recipients were analyzed. Of these, 9 had donors with MRA (Group 1) and 40 had donors with SRA (Group 2). Native kidney and liver mobilization was performed in 44.4% (4/9) of Group 1 vs. 60.0% (24/40) of Group 2 cases (p = 0.39). There were no cases of delayed graft function or graft primary nonfunction. No surgical drainage or ureteral stents were used in any of the cases. One patient in Group 2 developed a distal ureter stricture. The geometric mean serum creatinine at 6- and 12-months posttransplant was 0.7 */ 1.2 and 0.9 */ 1.2 mg/dl in Group 1 and 0.7 */ 1.1 and 0.7 */ 1.1 mg/dl in Group 2. Two death-censored graft failures were observed in Group 2, with no significant difference observed between the two groups (p = 0.48).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that pediatric renal transplantation with MRA grafts, using a surgical approach to achieve a single renal artery ostium, can be safely performed while achieving similar outcomes as SRA grafts and with a low complication rate.

RETRACTED:Predictive Factors of Surgical Complications in the First Year Following Kidney Transplantation

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal ( https://www.elsevier.com/locate/withdrawalpolicy ). The article has been retracted at the request of the last author, Sebastien Deglise, due to significant violations of research standards during the course of the study which do not ensure the reliability of the published data and of which the author has informed the journal that he was unaware at the time of the publication.

Thromboprophylaxis after kidney transplantation in children: Ten-year experience of a single Brazilian center

BACKGROUND

Kidney transplantation is the gold standard treatment for children with end-stage chronic kidney disease. Graft thrombosis is an important cause of graft failure, with high morbidity, mortality, and impact on quality of life and to the health system. The role of thromboprophylaxis in this setting is still uncertain. We describe the demographic characteristics and thrombotic risk factors in pediatric renal transplant recipients, determining the rate of renal graft thrombosis, and discuss the role of thromboprophylaxis.

METHODS

This retrospective study reviewed 96 pediatric renal transplantations between 2008 and 2017 in a single hospital. Patients were assigned to one of two groups: children who did not receive thromboprophylaxis after transplantation and those who did. We reported their characteristics, comparing the incidence of graft thrombosis and hemorrhagic complications between the groups.

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients (51%) received thromboprophylaxis. Thrombosis occurred in 5 patients who did not receive thromboprophylaxis (5.2%) compared with none in the group that did (p = .025). In all patients, renal graft thrombosis resulted in early graft loss. Thirteen patients had hemorrhagic complications. Seven were unrelated to pharmacological thromboprophylaxis (2 major, 1 moderate, and 4 minor bleeding, which either did not receive thromboprophylaxis or had bleeding prior to thromboprophylaxis), while six occurred during heparinization (2 major, 1 moderate, and 3 minor bleeding). There was no significant difference in the rate of hemorrhagic complications between the groups (p = .105).

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of renal graft thrombosis was 5.2%. Thrombosis remains an important cause of early graft loss. Thromboprophylaxis was associated with a reduction in graft thrombosis without increased risk of bleeding.

Analysis of the Peak Systolic Velocity in the Transplant Renal Artery Anastomosis to Determine Normal Values in Patients Without Graft Dysfunction

Objective:

The primary purpose is to define the mean renal artery anastomosis peak systolic velocity (RAA PSV) and the renal artery anastomosis to external iliac artery ratio (RAA-to-EIA) of renal transplant recipients without graft dysfunction. Moreover, to determine associations with type of vascular anastomosis and type of graft.

Materials and Methods:

This is a single-center retrospective analysis of kidney transplant recipients. Recorded variables included recipient age, type of vascular anastomosis, type of graft, RAA PSV, and external iliac artery PSV (EIA PSV). Such variables were evaluated on different postoperative follow-up periods.

Results:

There was a high degree of reliability between the RAA PSV and EIA PSV ( P < .001). The mean RAA PSV was 174 cm/s ± 72.9 cm/s with 95% confidence interval (CI) (162.2 cm/s-185.5 cm/s].

Conclusion:

This study highlights the importance of determining the normal range of RAA PSV and showed that a high PSV does not necessarily indicate dysfunction.

Case report of transplant renal artery stenosis secondary to mechanical renal artery kinking: Balloon angioplasty as a supportive diagnostic tool?

Introduction and importance

Renal vascular complications are a significant cause of morbidity in living donor renal transplantation. Among renal vascular complications, transplant renal artery stenosis (TRAS) secondary to mechanical kinking is a rare but important cause of early graft dysfunction. Identifying this phenomenon and correcting the underlying cause is critical to graft viability in the post-operative period. This case illustrates the importance of balloon angioplasty in identifying this complication and prompting surgical correction.

Case presentation

We describe the case of a 67-year-old male who received a right-sided living donor kidney graft for Stage IV Chronic Kidney Disease secondary to biopsy proven Ig-A nephropathy. In the post-operative course, serum creatinine remained elevated and Doppler showed low-normal vascular flow velocities. Renal angiogram indicated transplant renal artery stenosis secondary to the rare phenomenon of mechanical kinking. Findings noted during unsuccessful angioplasty supported the diagnosis and surgical repositioning of the graft provided definitive repair. Post-operative serum creatine trended down and urine output improved within 24 h. Patient was stable at two month follow up.

Clinical discussion

Transplant renal artery stenosis secondary to mechanical kinking can cause significant graft dysfunction in the post operative period. Previous case reports and literature review has found balloon angioplasty to be ineffective in correcting this underlying cause of TRAS. In line with previous reports, balloon angioplasty failed to correct the stenosis; however, this provided additional diagnostic information by identifying the kink and prompting surgical repair.

Conclusion

Transplant renal artery stenosis secondary to mechanical kinking can be difficult to identify by renal angiogram alone. Attempted balloon angioplasty can confirm the diagnosis and prompt definitive surgical repair.

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Rare case of transplant renal artery stenosis secondary to renal artery kinking

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Balloon angioplasty aided in distinguishing between TRAS and TRAS secondary to mechanical kinking.

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Early identification through renal angiogram and unsuccessful angioplasty permitted successful surgical repair.

Interventions for preventing thrombosis in solid organ transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Graft thrombosis is a well-recognised complication of solid organ transplantation and is one of the leading causes of graft failure. Currently there are no standardised protocols for thromboprophylaxis. Many transplant units use unfractionated heparin (UFH) and fractionated heparins (low molecular weight heparin; LMWH) as prophylaxis for thrombosis. Antiplatelet agents such as aspirin are routinely used as prophylaxis of other thrombotic conditions and may have a role in preventing graft thrombosis. However, any pharmacological thromboprophylaxis comes with the theoretical risk of increasing the risk of major blood loss following transplant. This review looks at benefits and harms of thromboprophylaxis in patients undergoing solid organ transplantation.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and harms of instituting thromboprophylaxis to patients undergoing solid organ transplantation.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies up to 10 November 2020 through contact with the Information Specialist using search terms relevant to this review. Studies in the Register are identified through searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, conference proceedings, the International Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP) Search Portal and ClinicalTrials.gov.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs designed to examine interventions to prevent thrombosis in solid organ transplant recipients. All donor types were included (donor after circulatory (DCD) and brainstem death (DBD) and live transplantation). There was no upper age limit for recipients in our search.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

The results of the literature search were screened and data collected by two independent authors. Dichotomous outcome results were expressed as risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Random effects models were used for data analysis. Risk of bias was independently assessed by two authors using the risk of bias assessment tool. Confidence in the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified nine studies (712 participants). Seven studies (544 participants) included kidney transplant recipients, and studies included liver transplant recipients. We did not identify any study enrolling heart, lung, pancreas, bowel, or any other solid organ transplant recipient. Selection bias was high or unclear in eight of the nine studies; five studies were at high risk of bias for performance and/or detection bias; while attrition and reporting biases were in general low or unclear. Three studies (180 participants) primarily investigated heparinisation in kidney transplantation. Only two studies reported on graft vessel thrombosis in kidney transplantation (144 participants). These small studies were at high risk of bias in several domains and reported only two graft thromboses between them; it therefore remains unclear whether heparin decreases the risk of early graft thrombosis or non-graft thrombosis (very low certainty). UFH may make little or no difference versus placebo to the rate of major bleeding events in kidney transplantation (3 studies, 155 participants: RR 2.92, 95% CI 0.89 to 9.56; I² = 0%; low certainty evidence). Sensitivity analysis using a fixed-effect model suggested that UFH may increase the risk of haemorrhagic events compared to placebo (RR 3.33, 95% CI 1.04 to 10.67, P = 0.04). Compared to control, any heparin (including LMWH) may make little or no difference to the number of major bleeding events (3 studies, 180 participants: RR 2.70, 95% CI 0.89 to 8.19; I² = 0%; low certainty evidence) and had an unclear effect on risk of readmission to intensive care (3 studies, 180 participants: RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.12 to 3.90, I² = 45%; very low certainty evidence). The effect of heparin on our other outcomes (including death, patient and graft survival, transfusion requirements) remains unclear (very low certainty evidence). Three studies (144 participants) investigated antiplatelet interventions in kidney transplantation: aspirin versus dipyridamole (1), and Lipo-PGE₁ plus low-dose heparin to "control" in patients who had a diagnosis of acute rejection (2). None of these reported on early graft thromboses. The effect of aspirin, dipyridamole and Lipo PGE₁ plus low-dose heparin on any outcomes is unclear (very low certainty evidence). Two studies (168 participants) assessed interventions in liver transplants. One compared warfarin versus aspirin in patients with pre-existing portal vein thrombosis and the other investigated plasmapheresis plus anticoagulation. Both studies were abstract-only publications, had high risk of bias in several domains, and no outcomes could be meta-analysed. Overall, the effect of any of these interventions on any of our outcomes remains unclear with no evidence to guide anti-thrombotic therapy in standard liver transplant recipients (very low certainty evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Overall, there is a paucity of research in the field of graft thrombosis prevention. Due to a lack of high quality evidence, it remains unclear whether any therapy is able to reduce the rate of early graft thrombosis in any type of solid organ transplant. UFH may increase the risk of major bleeding in kidney transplant recipients, however this is based on low certainty evidence. There is no evidence from RCTs to guide anti-thrombotic strategies in liver, heart, lung, or other solid organ transplants. Further studies are required in comparing anticoagulants, antiplatelets to placebo in solid organ transplantation. These should focus on outcomes such as early graft thrombosis, major haemorrhagic complications, return to theatre, and patient/graft survival.

Egyptian clinical practice guideline for kidney transplantation

Objective: To present the first Egyptian clinical practice guideline for kidney transplantation (KT).

Methods: A panel of multidisciplinary subspecialties related to KT prepared this document. The sources of information included updates of six international guidelines, and review of several relevant international and Egyptian publications. All statements were graded according to the strength of clinical practice recommendation and the level of evidence. All recommendations were discussed by the panel members who represented most of the licensed Egyptian centres practicing KT.

Results: Recommendations were given on preparation, surgical techniques and surgical complications of both donors and recipients. A special emphasis was made on the recipient’s journey with immunosuppression. It starts with setting the scene by covering the donor and recipient evaluations, medicolegal requirements, recipient’s protective vaccines, and risk assessment. It spans desensitisation and induction strategies to surgical approach and potential complications, options of maintenance immunosuppression, updated treatment of acute rejection and chemoprophylactic protocols. It ends with monitoring for potential complications of the recipient’s suppressed immunity and the short- and long-term complications of immunosuppressive drugs. It highlights the importance of individualisation of immunosuppression strategies consistent with pre-KT risk assessment. It emphasises the all-important role of anti-human leucocyte antigen antibodies, particularly the donor-specific antibodies (DSAs), in acute and chronic rejection, and eventual graft and patient survival. It addresses the place of DSAs across the recipient’s journey with his/her gift of life.

Conclusion: This guideline introduces the first proposed standard of good clinical practice in the field of KT in Egypt.

Abbreviations: Ab: antibody; ABMR: Ab-mediated rejection; ABO: ABO blood groups; BKV: BK polyomavirus; BMI: body mass index; BTS: British Transplantation Society; CAN: chronic allograft nephropathy; CDC: complement-dependent cytotoxicity; CKD: chronic kidney disease; CMV: cytomegalovirus; CNI: calcineurin inhibitor; CPRA: Calculated Panel Reactive Antibodies; (dn)DSA: (de novo) donor-specific antibodies; ECG: electrocardiogram; ESWL: extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy; FCM: flow cytometry; GBM: glomerular basement membrane; GN: glomerulonephritis; HIV: human immunodeficiency virus; HLA: human leucocyte antigen; HPV: human papilloma virus; IL2-RA: interleukin-2 receptor antagonist; IVIg: intravenous immunoglobulin; KT(C)(R): kidney transplantation/transplant (candidate) (recipient); (L)(O)LDN: (laparoscopic) (open) live-donor nephrectomy; MBD: metabolic bone disease; MCS: Mean channel shift (in FCM-XM); MFI: mean fluorescence intensity; MMF: mycophenolate mofetil; mTOR(i): mammalian target of rapamycin (inhibitor); NG: ‘not graded’; PAP: Papanicolaou smear; PCN: percutaneous nephrostomy; PCNL: percutaneous nephrolithotomy; PKTU: post-KT urolithiasis; PLEX: plasma exchange; PRA: panel reactive antibodies; PSI: proliferation signal inhibitor; PTA: percutaneous transluminal angioplasty; RAS: renal artery stenosis; RAT: renal artery thrombosis;:rATG: rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin; RCT: randomised controlled trial; RIS: Relative MFI Score; RVT: renal vein thrombosis; TB: tuberculosis; TCMR: T-cell-mediated rejection; URS: ureterorenoscopy; (CD)US: (colour Doppler) ultrasonography; VCUG: voiding cystourethrogram; XM: cross match; ZN: Ziehl–Neelsen stain

Retrospective Analysis of the Comparison Between Single Renal Artery Versus Multiple Renal Arteries in Living Donor Kidney Transplant: Does It Affect the Outcome?

OBJECTIVES

There is an increased risk of vascular complications in kidney transplant for allografts with multiple renal arteries versus a single renal artery. We compared the clinical outcomes of living donor kidney transplant recipients who received allografts with a single renal artery versus multiple renal arteries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective analysis included all living-related donor kidney transplants that were performed by a single skilled urologist. All donor nephrectomies were performed by open method. The left kidney was preferred over the right for donor nephrectomy, except in cases of vascular problems or other contraindications, for which the right kidney was preferred. In most of the cases, kidneys were placed in the right iliac fossa for transplant by an extraperitoneal approach.

RESULTS

Of 97 living donor kidney transplants, 82 had a single renal artery (group 1) and 15 had multiple renal arteries (group 2). Patients ranged in age from 18 to 76 years old. Recipient ages (33.00 vs 29.46 years) and baseline serum creatinine values (8.61 vs 8.82 mg/dL) were comparable in groups 1 and 2 (P > .05). However, mean operative time and total ischemia time were significantly higher in the multiple renal artery group (221 and 53.45 minutes, respectively) compared with the single renal artery group (202 and 77.6 minutes, respectively). Graft survival at 1 year was 95.12% in the single renal artery group and 93.33% in the multiple renal artery group. Patient survival at 1 year was 96.34% in the single renal artery group and 93.33% in the multiple renal artery group.

CONCLUSIONS

The safety of kidney transplants of allografts with multiple renal arteries is equal to the safety of transplants of allografts with a single renal artery in terms of vascular complications and acute tubular necrosis, as well as patient and graft survival.

Recipient and renal allograft survival following living related-donor transplantation: a single center experience

Background

Despite improvements in surgical techniques of renal transplantation, still surgical complications remain a big challenge that might affect the post-transplant recipient and graft outcome. The aim of the current study was to retrospectively assess the surgical complications following living related kidney transplants in our center from 1990 to 2012 and determine their impact on long term recipient and graft survival.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of all live related-donor kidney transplants performed at our tertiary referral center between June 1990 and December 2012. Data regarding recipient demographics, details of surgical techniques, any reported complications and cumulative recipient and graft survival was analyzed.

Results

One hundred and four patients were included in the study whom we had access to their complete hospital records and they didn’t miss follow up. There were 41 surgical complications reported in 37 recipients, prevalence of 35.5%. Vascular and urologic complications were reported in 17(16.3%) and 11 (10.5%) recipients respectively. Lymphocele was post-operatively diagnosed in nine (8.7%) recipients. Recipient survival at 1 year and 5-year were 100% and 97% respectively. Graft survival at 1 year and at 5 years were 96% and 85.5% respectively. Surgical complications mentioned, other than renal artery thrombosis, had no statistically significant impact on the graft and recipient survival.

Conclusion

Although surgical complications post-transplantation are not rare, the resulting morbidity can be minimized by prompt management of complications. In general, the existence of surgical complications did not impact recipient or graft survival.

Skin disorders indicating peripheral arterial occlusive disease and chronic venous insufficiency in organ transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) in organ transplant recipients (OTR) can lead to harmful outcomes. We made an inventory of cutaneous manifestations of PAOD and CVI in OTR in relation with diabetes and other potential risk factors.

METHODS

A prospective study in a single center was performed. OTR (n = 112) were included at the outpatient clinic to investigate clinical signs of PAOD and CVI. The most commonly associated risk factors were determined.

RESULTS

PAOD had been diagnosed in 15.6% and CVI in 30.0% of the patients. Diabetes was the cause of organ failure in 9.8% of the patients. Type 1 diabetes had been diagnosed in 8.9% and type 2 diabetes in 21.4% (59.1% new-onset diabetes after transplantation). Type 1 diabetes showed an increased risk for PAOD and limb amputation with hazard ratios of 11.0 (95%CI 3.0-40.2) and 9.1 (95%CI 1.4-58.6). Type 2 diabetes showed no increased risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a history of type 1 diabetes were at high risk for PAOD even years after a simultaneous pancreas kidney transplantation and they should remain under close observation for PAOD even though they are supposedly "cured" from their diabetes to prevent a harmful outcome.

Operative Versus Nonoperative Management of Hemorrhage in the Postoperative Kidney Transplant Patient

BACKGROUND

Postoperative hemorrhage has been described at rates of 14% in kidney transplant (KT) literature. The preferred management of postoperative hemorrhage in this population is not well described. We hypothesized a difference in outcomes with operative versus nonoperative management of hemorrhage after kidney transplantation.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of consecutive KTs from 2012 to 2019 (living and deceased donors). We defined hemorrhage based on the objective finding of hematoma on either ultrasound or CT scan. Management was defined as operative (surgical intervention with or without transfusion) or nonoperative (with or without transfusion).

RESULTS

We performed 1758 KTs of which 135 (8%) demonstrated hematoma on ultrasound or CT scan (66 operative vs 69 nonoperative management). The clinical signs and symptoms of low urine output (P = .044), drop in hemoglobin (P < .001), abdominal pain (P = .005), and MAP < 70 mm Hg (P = .034) were 92.5% predictive of postoperative hemorrhage in our KT patients. There were no differences between groups based on medical history, preop anticoagulation, anastomosis type, cold ischemic time, lowest hemoglobin, delayed graft function, or complications. Patients with nonoperative treatment of postoperative hemorrhage had shorter lengths of stay (P = .003), better graft survival (P = .01), and better patient survival (P = .01).

DISCUSSION

We found better outcomes of graft and patient survival with shorter lengths of stay when we utilized nonoperative management of postoperative hemorrhage in KT patients. Our findings suggest a role for conservative nonoperative management in select patients. Ultimately, it is the surgeon's choice on how best to manage postoperative hemorrhage.

Troubleshooting Complex Vascular Cases in the Kidney Graft: Multiple Vessels, Aneurysms, and Injuries During Harvesting Procedures

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

To update the most relevant literature regarding complex vascular cases in kidney transplant setting involving the graft, especially during the harvesting procedure and back-table preparation from the subsequent implant.

RECENT FINDINGS

Challenging situations affecting the kidney graft such as multiple vessels, renal artery aneurysms, kidney anatomical anomalies, or major injuries do not contraindicate the transplant, but require an exhaustive graft viability assessment and several bench surgery techniques. Graft vessel conditioning in the back-table might include simple anastomosis between them, enlarging with venous patch or reconstruction with donor or synthetic grafts. Compared with conventional transplant, literature reports longer warm ischemia time (40 vs 32 min) and slightly increased rates of delayed graft function (10.3% vs 8.2%) and vascular complications (10.8% vs 8.1%), but similar graft and patient survival. Kidney graft vascular complex cases require exhaustive assessment, meticulous harvesting, good surgical technique in the bench table, and proper surgery in the recipient. Despite its complexity, vascular complex kidney transplant offers comparable outcomes in the long term to conventional population when technically well performed, with slightly increased rates of vascular complications and delayed graft function.

Endovascular management of transplant renal artery stenosis: A single-center retrospective study

OBJECTIVES

The aim is to evaluate the efficacy and complications of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA)/stenting in the treatment of transplant renal artery stenosis (TRAS).

BACKGROUND

TRAS is a relatively rare condition, and currently, there is not enough study about interventional therapy for TRAS.

METHODS

Between April 2011 and July 2018, 33 patients with TRAS underwent interventional therapy. Analysis of parameters was as follows: technical success, pretreatment and posttreatment serum creatinine, and blood pressure, and vessel patency via ultrasound at 1, 6, and 12 months posttreatment and once a year thereafter.

RESULTS

One procedure failed. The success rate of PTA/stenting placement was 97.0%. Fourteen PTAs with 16 stents were primary interventions, with 2 stent procedures performed subsequently due to restenosis; the restenosis rate was 6.3%. During the follow-up period, two patients progressed to graft renal failure and three patients were lost to follow-up. The rest of the patients still had stable graft function and blood pressure. Compared with preoperative conditions, blood pressure and serum creatinine significantly decreased (p < .05). No treatment-related deaths or serious complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

PTA/stenting is a safe and effective treatment for TRAS. For selected TRAS patients, PTA or PTA with stent may achieve good therapeutic outcomes. Selecting appropriate puncture pathways may help improve the success rate and affect the operation results, and open surgery may be avoided.

Analysis of the Effects of Day-Time vs. Night-Time Surgery on Renal Transplant Patient Outcomes

Sleep deprivation and disruption of the circadian rhythms could impair individual surgical performance and decision making. For this purpose, this study identified potential confounding factors on surgical renal transplant patient outcomes during day and night. Our retrospective cohort study of 215 adult renal cadaver transplant recipients, of which 132 recipients were allocated in the “day-time” group and 83 recipients in the “night-time” group, primarily stratified the patients into two cohorts, depending on the start time. Within a 24 h operational system, “day-time” was considered as being from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and “night-time” from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.. Primary outcomes examined patient and graft survival after three months and one year. Secondary outcomes included the presence of acute rejection (AR) and delayed graft function (DGF), as well as the rate of postoperative complications. In log-rank testing, “day-time” surgery was associated with a significantly higher risk of patient death (p = 0.003), whereas long-term graft survival was unaffected by the operative time of day. The mean cold ischemia time (CIT), which was 12.4 ± 5.3 h in the “night-time” group, was significantly longer compared to 10.7 ± 3.6 for those during the day (p = 0.01). We observed that “night-time” kidney recipients experienced more wound complications. From our single-centre data, we conclude that night-time kidney transplantation does not increase the risk of adverse events or predispose the patient to a worse outcome. Nevertheless, further research is required to explore the effect of fatigue on nocturnal surgical performance.

Risk factors for transplant renal artery stenosis after live donor transplantation

Background

Renal transplant surgeons are making increasing use of live donor kidneys with multiple renal arteries. This study aimed to identify independent risk factors for the development of transplant renal artery stenosis (TRAS) in the modern era of complex arterial reconstruction for multiple vessels.

Methods

Multivariable logistic regression analysis with a stepwise variable deletion model was used to identify risk factors for the development of TRAS in a consecutive series of live donor kidney transplants.

Results

Of 506 kidney transplants, 19 (3·8 per cent) had evidence of significant TRAS on CT angiography. Functional TRAS, defined by improvement in BP control or renal function after correction of a stenosis by angioplasty, occurred in 13 of 506 patients (2·6 per cent). Independent risk factors for TRAS were: use of an explanted internal iliac artery graft from the recipient (odds ratio (OR) 4·95; P = 0·020) and total ischaemia time (OR 1·82; P = 0·010). TRAS was associated with a lower 5-year allograft survival rate (79 versus 88·7 per cent; P = 0·020) but only one graft loss was attributed directly to TRAS. The 5-year allograft survival rate after internal iliac artery grafting was 86 per cent.

Conclusion

Although use of an internal iliac artery graft is an independent risk factor for TRAS after live donor kidney transplantation, this technique is still a useful option for complex arterial reconstruction.

Outcomes of Kidney Transplantation by Using the Technique of Renal Artery Anastomosis First

Introduction

The surgical technique for kidney transplantation has been well established: the renal vein is anastomosed first, followed by renal artery anastomosis. Alternatively, the renal artery can be anastomosed first and then the renal vein for kidney transplantation. However, there is a lack of data on the outcomes of kidney transplantation by using this alternative approach. The objective of this paper was to review the outcomes of kidney transplant by using this approach.

Methods

A review of 205 consecutive kidney transplants was conducted. All kidney transplants were performed by doing renal artery anastomosis first and then the renal vein. Data were collected, including vascular/urological complications and kidney graft function.

Results

All transplants were performed successfully with no occurrence of renal artery/vein thrombosis and urine leakage. There were five cases of renal artery stenosis that were managed with endovascular intervention. There was no recurrence on follow-up. One ureteric stenosis required surgical reconstruction.

Conclusions

This alternative vascular anastomotic technique is efficient and safe. It avoids flip-flopping the kidney graft during the vessel anastomoses and may be more practical in minimally invasive surgery for a kidney transplant due to the space constraint.

Preemptively and non-preemptively transplanted patients show a comparable hypercoagulable state prior to kidney transplantation compared to living kidney donors

To prevent renal graft thrombosis in kidney transplantation, centres use different perioperative anticoagulant strategies, based on various risk factors. In our centre, patients transplanted preemptively are considered at increased risk of renal graft thrombosis compared to patients who are dialysis-dependent at time of transplantation. Therefore these patients are given a single dose of 5000 IU unfractionated heparin intraoperatively before clamping of the vessels. We questioned whether there is a difference in haemostatic state between preemptively and non-preemptively transplanted patients and whether the distinction in intraoperative heparin administration used in our center is justified. For this analysis, citrate samples of patients participating in the VAPOR-1 trial were used and several haemostatic and fibrinolytic parameters were measured in 29 preemptively and 28 non-preemptively transplanted patients and compared to 37 living kidney donors. Sample points were: induction anaesthesia (T1), 5 minutes after reperfusion (T2) and 2 hours postoperative (T3). At T1, recipient groups showed comparable elevated levels of platelet factor 4 (PF4, indicating platelet activation), prothrombin fragment F1+2 and D-dimer (indicating coagulation activation) and Von Willebrand Factor (indicating endothelial activation) compared to the donors. The Clot Lysis Time (CLT, a measure of fibrinolytic potential) was prolonged in both recipient groups compared to the donors. At T3, F1+2, PF4 and CLT were higher in non-preemptively transplanted recipients compared to preemptively transplanted recipients. Compared to donors, non-preemptive recipients showed a prolonged CLT, but comparable levels of PF4 and D-dimer. In conclusion pre-transplantation, preemptively and non-preemptively transplanted patients show a comparable enhanced haemostatic state. A distinction in intraoperative heparin administration between preemptive and non-preemptive transplantation does not seem justified.

Immediate Vascular Complications After Kidney Transplant: Experience from 2100 Recipients

OBJECTIVES

Vascular complications, especially immediate events during kidney transplant, are the major cause of graft loss, and prompt surgical intervention is important for salvage of the graft and recipient. In this study, our aim was to show our experiences with vascular interventions and their effects on graft outcomes in transplant patients with suspected immediate vascular events.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Over 24 years (from 1990 to 2014), 2100 renal transplant procedures (1562 living and 538 deceased donors) were performed by one fixed team. We reviewed the recipients to find cases with immediate vascular complications, including artery or vein kinking or torsion, renal artery thrombosis, and renal vein thrombosis. Diagnosis of a vascular event was suspected when urinary output suddenly stopped and was confirmed by color Doppler ultrasonography or immediate exploration. Characteristics of the patients and events, surgical interventions for saving grafts, and graft outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

Our study included 28 vascular accidents (1.3% of total renal transplants). Arterial kinking or torsion, venous kinking or torsion, renal artery thrombosis, and renal vein thrombosis occurred in 11 (0.52%), 2 (0.09%), 12 (0.57%), and 3 patients (0.14%). Nine of the 11 cases of arterial kinking occurred with use of internal iliac artery. Eleven of 13 grafts with vascular kinking or torsion were saved by immediate surgical intervention, but only 4 grafts in patients with renal artery thrombosis and only 1 graft in patients with renal vein thrombosis were saved by surgical intervention. Delayed graft function occurred in all cases of saved renal artery and renal vein thrombosis but only in 5 cases (4 arterial and 1 venous) of vascular kinking or torsion.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of immediate vascular complications was 1.3% in our study. Sudden cessation of urine after renal transplant is a warning sign, and immediate diagnosis of vascular events will help salvage the graft with proper intervention.

Hypercoagulability in Kidney Transplant Recipients

Thrombosis remains an important complication after kidney transplantation. Outcomes for graft and deep vein thrombosis are not favorable. The majority of early kidney transplant failure in adults is due to allograft thrombosis. Risk stratification, early diagnosis, and appropriate intervention are critical to the management of thrombotic complications of transplant. In patients with end-stage renal disease, the prevalence of acquired risk factors for thrombosis is significantly high. Because of hereditary and acquired risk factors, renal transplant recipients manifest features of a chronic prothrombotic state. Identification of hereditary thrombotic risk factors before transplantation may be a useful tool for selecting appropriate candidates for thrombosis prophylaxis immediately after transplantation. Short-term anticoagulation may be appropriate for all patients after kidney transplantation.

Evaluation of the Vascular Surgical Complications of Renal Transplantation

BACKGROUND

Renal transplantation is the treatment of choice of end-stage renal failure. However, vascular surgical complications can compromise the functional prognosis of the transplant or even be life threatening in the short term. Since few data are available in the literature, the objective of this study was to evaluate the vascular surgical complications of renal transplantation.

METHODS

In a retrospective and monocentric study, the records of all the patients receiving a kidney transplant between January 2008 and December 2014 were reviewed. The demographic data and the follow-up of the patients who presented a vascular surgical complication in relation to their transplant were collected. Minor, intermediate, or major vascular complications were defined according to the need for monitoring, reoperation, or the risk of transplant loss or a life-threatening situation. Predictive factors of vascular complications were also looked for.

RESULTS

Mean age was 50.9 ± 15.0 years, and 312 kidney transplants were carried out (205 men). Fifty vascular surgical complications (16.0%) were found. Among them, 23 vascular complications (7.4%) were major, including 6 (1.9%) which required transplantectomy, after 4 arterial thromboses (1.3%), 1 early venous thrombosis (0.3%), and 1 injury of the inferior vena cava (0.3%). Twelve complications (3.8%) were minor. Surgical revision was necessary in 76% of the vascular complications (n = 38). The average follow-up of the transplanted population was 37.4 ± 24.0 month, 268 kidney transplants (85.8%) were functional and 21 patients (6.7%) returned to dialysis. Surgical complications were more frequent when the recipient had hypertension (P = 0.02, OR = 2.5; 95% CI [1.1-6.1]), in case of right kidney transplant (P = 0.0004, OR = 3.1; 95% CI [1.6-5.8]) and when the kidney hilum consisted of at least arteries (P = 0.02, OR = 10.0; 95% CI [1.3-34]). Male gender (P = 0.03, OR = 0.5; 95% CI [0.3-0.9]) as well as the choice of the common iliac arterial (P = 0.001, OR = 0.4; 95% IC [0.2-0.7]) and venous (P = 0.002, OR = 0.3; 95% IC [0.2-0.8]) axes to carry out the vascular anastomoses appeared as protective factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The vascular surgical complications of kidney transplantation, especially thromboses, can be serious and lead to transplant loss. The expertise of vascular surgeons finds its place here and makes it possible to maintain low rates of vascular complications and loss of transplants.

An account of the anesthetist's vigilance and prevention of adversity during donor nephrectomy

Here, we present the case of a 42 year old female patient, ASA1 and donor for renal transplant surgery of her husband. The pre-anesthesia visit did not reveal any co-morbidity on history and the physical examination was also within normal limits. The patient was taken to the operating room and routine monitoring in the form of non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP), SpO₂ probe and five lead electrocardiogram were applied. Anesthesia was induced with midazolam 1mg intravenous (i/v), fentanyl 100 μg i.v, propofol 100mg i/v and vecuronium bromide 5 mg. i/v. At the end of surgery, anesthesia was reversed and breathing attempts were observed. Suddenly the monitor displayed a drop in the ETCO2 to 5-6 mmHg. Immediately the ventilator circuit was checked which was found to be in place and on chest auscultation, bilateral equal air entry was heard. Sudden bradycardia with heart beat dropping to 32 beats per minute and a blood pressure reading of 90/50 mmHg was displayed on the monitor. Surgeons were informed about the possibility of an intra-abdominal bleed. On surgical exploration, the renal artery pedicle ligature was found to have slipped away resulting in torrential amount of bleeding. The bleeder having been identified was secured and a complete inspection of other possible bleeding sites was done. Post operatively, the patient was shifted to the intensive care unit with inotropic support. It was decided to keep the patient mechanically ventilated on volume control mode of ventilation. The patient remained stable on post-operative day 5, the patient was shifted to the ward.

Iatrogenic-related transplant injuries: the role of the interventional radiologist

As advances in surgical techniques and postoperative care continue to improve outcomes, the use of solid organ transplants as a treatment for end-stage organ disease is increasing. With the growing population of transplant patients, there is an increasing need for radiologic diagnosis and minimally invasive procedures for the management of posttransplant complications. Typical complications may be vascular or nonvascular. Vascular complications include arterial stenosis, graft thrombosis, and development of fistulae. Common nonvascular complications consist of leaks, abscess formation, and stricture development. The use of interventional radiology in the management of these problems has led to better graft survival and lower patient morbidity and mortality. An understanding of surgical techniques, postoperative anatomy, radiologic findings, and management options for complications is critical for proficient management of complex transplant cases. This article reviews these factors for kidney, liver, pancreas, islet cell, lung, and small bowel transplants.

Pediatric transplantation: preventing thrombosis

Due to progressive advances in surgical techniques, immunosuppressive therapies, and supportive care, outcomes from both solid organ transplantation and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation continue to improve. Thrombosis remains a challenging management issue in this context, with implications for both graft survival and long-term quality of life. Unfortunately, there remains a general paucity of pediatric-specific data regarding thrombosis incidence, risk stratification, and the safety or efficacy of preventative strategies with which to guide treatment algorithms. This review summarizes the available evidence and rationale underlying the spectrum of current practices aimed at preventing thrombosis in the transplant recipient, with a particular focus on risk factors, pathophysiology, and described antithrombotic regimens.

Risk of major hemorrhage after kidney transplantation

BACKGROUND

Major hemorrhagic events are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. We examined the three-year cumulative incidence of hospitalization with major nontraumatic hemorrhage after kidney transplantation.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study using healthcare administrative data of all adult-incident kidney-only transplantation recipients in Ontario, Canada from 1994 to 2009. We calculated the three-year cumulative incidence, event rate, and incident rate ratio of hospitalization with major hemorrhage, its subtypes and those undergoing a hemorrhage-related procedure. RESULTS were stratified by patient age and donor type and compared to a random and propensity-score matched sample from the general population.

RESULTS

Among 4,958 kidney transplant recipients, the three-year cumulative incidence of hospitalization with nontraumatic major hemorrhage was 3.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.0-4.1%, 12.7 events per 1,000 patient-years) compared to 0.4% (95% CI 0.4-0.5%) in the general population (RR = 8.2, 95% CI 6.9-9.7). The crude risk of hemorrhage was 3-9-fold higher in all subtypes (upper/lower gastrointestinal, intra-cranial) and 15-fold higher for gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures compared to the random sample from the general population. After propensity score matching, the relative risk for major hemorrhage and its subtypes attenuated but remained elevated. The cumulative incidence of hemorrhage was higher for older individuals and those with a deceased donor kidney.

CONCLUSION

Kidney transplantation recipients have a higher risk of hospitalization with hemorrhage compared to the general population, with about 1 in 30 recipients experiencing a major hemorrhage in the three years following transplant.

Complications of transplantation. Part 1: renal transplants

Vascular complications after solid-organ transplantation are not uncommon and may lead to graft dysfunction and ultimately graft loss. A thorough understanding of the surgical anatomy, etiologies, and types of vascular complications, their presentation, and the options for management are important for managing these complex patients. This article reviews the basic surgical anatomy, vascular complications, and endovascular management options of vascular complications in patients with renal transplants.

Long-term graft outcome after renal arterial reconstruction during living related kidney transplantation

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the repair of vascular variations/pathologies in living donor kidney transplantations in a single centre over a 15-year period.

METHODS

Between 01/1997 and 05/2012, 338 living donor renal transplantations were performed in the Department for Endovascular and Vascular Surgery, University of Düsseldorf, Germany. Twenty-four of them showed disorders, like multiple renal arteries (MRA), atherosclerotic stenosis or fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) needing vascular repair before transplantation.

RESULTS

Mean age of donors was 51 ± 11.2, in recipient's 44 ± 13.9 years. In seven transplantations, renal artery (RA) repair was performed because of MRA. Atherosclerotic stenosis of the RA was apparent in 12 cases needing a repair with disobliteration. FMD was the reason in five transplantations for vascular repair. Complications like renal vessel thrombosis, lymphocele, heamorrhage, distal urinary leakage and ureteral obstruction was not significantly associated with RA reconstruction. Comparison of renal function in kidneys with reconstructed RA compared with kidneys without vascular repair showed no significant difference in primary function and serum creatinine up to the first year after transplantation. Mean follow-up was 75.6 ± 48.1 months. The 5-year graft survival rate for kidneys with RA repair was 88.5 vs. 93.4 % without reconstruction.

CONCLUSIONS

We could show that RA pathologies, suitable repaired, are not a contraindication for transplantation with acceptable 5-year-graft-survival rates.

Robotic kidney transplantation with regional hypothermia: a step-by-step description of the Vattikuti Urology Institute-Medanta technique (IDEAL phase 2a)

BACKGROUND

We recently reported on preclinical and feasibility studies (Innovation, Development, Exploration, Assessment, Long-term study [IDEAL] phase 0-1) of the development of robotic kidney transplantation (RKT) with regional hypothermia. This paper presents the IDEAL phase 2a studies of technique development.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the technique of RKT with regional hypothermia developed at two tertiary care institutions (Vattikuti Urology Institute and Medanta Hospital). We report on the safety profile and early graft function in these patients.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This is a prospective study of 50 consecutive patients who underwent live-donor RKT at Medanta Hospital following a 3-yr planning/simulation phase at the Vattikuti Urology Institute. Demographic details, and perioperative and postoperative outcomes are reported for the initial 25 recipients who have completed a minimum 6-mo follow-up.

SURGICAL PROCEDURE

Positioning and port placement were similar to that used for robotic radical prostatectomy. Allograft cooling was achieved by ice slush delivered through a GelPOINT device. The accompanying video details the operative technique.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The primary outcome was posttransplant graft function. Secondary outcomes included technical success or failure and complication rates.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Fifty patients underwent RKT successfully, 7 in the phase 1 and 43 in the phase 2 stages of the study. For the initial 25 patients, mean console, warm ischemia, arterial, and venous anastomotic times were 135, 2.4, 12, and 13.4 min, respectively. All grafts were cooled to 18-20 °C with no change in core body temperature. All grafts functioned immediately posttransplant and the mean serum creatinine level at discharge was 1.3mg/dl (range: 0.8-3.1mg/dl). No patient developed anastomotic leaks, wound complications, or wound infections. At 6-mo of follow-up, no patient had developed a lymphocele detected on CT scanning. Two patients underwent re-exploration, and one patient died of congestive heart failure (1.5 mo posttransplant).

CONCLUSIONS

RKT with regional hypothermia is safe and reproducible when performed by a team skilled in robotic surgery.

PATIENT SUMMARY

RKT is safe and effective when performed by surgeons experienced in robotic techniques.

Evolution of laparoscopic live donor nephrectomy: a single-center experience with 1510 cases over 14 years

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the outcomes of laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) and proposed modifications for kidney donation surgery. From February 1997 to February 2011, 1510 LDNs were performed.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Surgical modifications included a modified open access technique for entry into the abdominal cavity, using vascular clips for safe and cost-effective control of the renal pedicle, control of the lumbar veins, and adrenal vein using bipolar cautery instead of clips, and leaving the gonadal vein intact with the ureter. Kidneys were extracted by hand through a Pfannenstiel incision. Heparin was not used after the first 300 cases to prevent potential hemorrhagic complications.

RESULTS

Although three major vascular injuries occurred using the closed access method that were managed successfully, no access-related complications occurred using the modified open access technique. Clip failure did not happen in any cases. Patient and graft survival at 1 year post-transplantation were 96.5% and 95.5%, respectively, and at 5 years post-transplantation were 95.3% and 89.5%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The proposed surgical modifications are based on 14 years of experience and 1510 cases, and make LDN simple, safe, and cost-effective. The excellent recipient and graft outcomes with minimal morbidity obtained further confirm that LDN can be considered as the gold standard for kidney donation surgery.

Endovascular treatment of external iliac vein stenosis caused by graft compression after kidney transplantation

A 57-year old patient presented with approximately 80% stenosis of the left external iliac vein due to compression by the renal graft after kidney transplantation. The initial clinical manifestation of this vascular complication was progressive edema of the left lower limb, starting in the foot during the immediate postoperative period and reaching the thigh. Renal function also deteriorated during the first four months after transplantation. Venous Doppler ultrasound findings were suggestive of a diagnosis of extrinsic compression by the kidney graft and so phlebography was ordered, confirming stenosis of the left external iliac vein. The patient was initially treated with balloon angioplasty, but there was still residual stenosis so a stent was inserted, eliminating the stenosis. The edema reduced over time and the patient's renal function improved. While vascular complications are rare, and potentially severe, events, success rates are good if treatment is started early.

Identification of risk factors for vascular thrombosis may reduce early renal graft loss: a review of recent literature

Renal graft survival has improved over the past years, mainly owing to better immunosuppression. Vascular thrombosis, though rare, therefore accounts for up to one third of early graft loss. We assess current literature on transplantation, identify thrombosis risk factors, and discuss means of avoiding thrombotic events and saving thrombosed grafts. The incidence of arterial thrombosis was reported to 0.2–7.5% and venous thrombosis 0.1–8.2%, with the highest incidence among children and infants, and the lowest in living donor reports. The most significant risk factors for developing thrombosis were donor-age below 6 or above 60 years, or recipient-age below 5-6 years, per- or postoperative hemodynamic instability, peritoneal dialysis, diabetic nephropathy, a history of thrombosis, deceased donor, or >24 hours cold ischemia. Multiple arteries were not a risk factor, and a right kidney graft was most often reported not to be. Given the thrombosed kidney graft is diagnosed in time, salvage is possible by urgent reoperation and thrombectomy. Despite meticulous attentions to reduce thrombotic risk factors, thrombosis cannot be entirely prevented and means to an early detection of this complication is desirable in order to save the kidneys through prompt reoperation. Microdialysis may be a new tool for this.

Vascular and haemorrhagic complications of adult and paediatric live-donor renal transplantation: A single-centre study with a long-term follow-up

Objectives

To compare the haemorrhagic and vascular complications between paediatric and adult renal transplant recipients with a long-term follow-up.

Patients and methods

Between March 1976 and December 2006, in all, 1865 live-donor renal transplants were carried out. Patients were stratified according to their ages into two groups; paediatric (⩽18 years; 259) and adult (>18 years; 1606). Variables assessed included incidence, risk factors, management and sequelae of vascular and haemorrhagic complications. The effect of these complications on patient and graft survival was compared.

Results

Haemorrhage requiring active intervention (percutaneous drainage or surgical exploration) was reported in seven children (2.7%) and 29 adults (1.8%), while thrombotic or stenotic complications were recorded in two children (0.77%) and 19 adults (1.18%; P < 0.05). Female gender, delayed onset of diuresis and acute tubular necrosis were significant predictors of vascular complications on univariate analysis, but none remained significant on multivariate analysis. In adults, vascular complications had a significant negative effect on mean (SD) 10-year graft survival compared to patients with no complications, at 19.8 (7.63)% vs. 55.7 (1.66)% (P = 0.01). Children who developed vascular complications had a significantly higher 5- and 10-year graft survival rate than adults (P = 0.01).

Conclusion

The incidence of vascular complications is comparable in paediatric and adult transplants. Vascular complications had a significant negative influence on graft survival in adult recipients. Children who developed vascular complications appear to tolerate its effects and have a better graft survival than have adults.