Hepatic transplantation for cirrhosis

: Cirrhosis accounts for 60% of liver transplantations that are performed. The main causes are chronic viral hepatitis B and C, and alcoholism. However, all patients with severe cirrhosis are potential candidates for liver transplantation, regardless of the cause. Liver transplantation is indicated when the patient's life expectancy is one year or less. The main criterion for transplantation is severe liver failure (Child-Pugh's stage C). Transplantation is also proposed in patients with intractable ascites, and in patients with spontaneous encephalopathy. Isolated portal hypertension is not an indication for transplantation. Liver transplantation in hepatocellular carcinoma is still a matter of debate. The results of liver transplantation are very satisfactory with survival rates of 70% at 5 years and patient rehabilitation is usually excellent.