Anatomical variations and surgical strategies in right lobe living donor liver transplantation: lessons from 120 cases1

Abstract

Anatomical variations of vascular and biliary structures in right lobe grafts are common. However, most can be managed safely with technical modifications. Only cases with intraparenchymal origin of the anterior portal vein(s) may form a relative contraindication, especially when combined with similar biliary variants. Otherwise, intraoperative assessment of biliary anatomy was enough for successful management. Detailed and precise assessment of vascular and biliary anatomy is vital for appropriate surgical management.