Liver transplantation for biliary atresia with special reference to the Japanese children who received liver transplantation in foreign countries

Seven cases out of 8 Japanese children who received orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) in foreign countries because of biliary atresia as of Oct 1988 are reported. Their clinical courses after OLT have been good. Despite being satisfied with the results, their parents and family feel anxiety such as long term postoperative care and side effects of immunosuppressive therapy. Cost and the handling of rejection or retransplantation were pointed out as the greatest problems related to receiving OLT in foreign countries.