Recurrent Pulmonary Embolism during Liver Transplantation: Possible Role of Hepatitis B Immune Globulin As a Causative Agent

Abstract

MASSIVE pulmonary embolism (PE), although an uncommon complication in liver transplant surgery is associated with a high mortality rate. Five of nine patients reported to have massive PE in the past 12 yr died from this complication. 1,2 We report a case of PE that occurred in the same patient during two consecutive liver transplant procedures in association with the use of an antifibrinolytic and hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG).