Etiology, Incidence, and Impact of Preservation Fluid Contamination in Liver Transplantation

What is it about?

The study examined the incidence and impact of contaminated preservation fluid on infection development after liver transplantation. 50 consecutive liver transplants were studied, and cultures were taken of preservation fluid, blood, bile, and ascitic fluid. 92% of cases showed contaminated preservation fluid, but only 28% were contaminated by recognized pathogens. The most common isolated microorganisms were coagulasenegative staphylococci. No liver transplant recipient developed an infection from an organism isolated from the preservation fluid. The study found that contamination of preservation fluid is frequent, mainly caused by saprophytic skin flora, and transmission of infection is low, especially when recipients receive targeted antimicrobial treatment.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

This research is important because it provides valuable insights into the incidence and etiology of contaminated preservation fluid in liver transplantation, which could help improve patient outcomes and prevent infections. Key Takeaways: 1. The incidence of contaminated preservation fluid in liver transplantation is 92%, mainly caused by saprophytic skin flora. 2. The transmission of infection from contaminated preservation fluid to recipients is low when targeted antimicrobial treatment is administered. 3. Further prospective multicenter studies are needed to determine optimal strategies for preventing and managing subsequent infections in liver transplant recipients.