Background: Hepatic hydrothorax (HH) is associated with a poor prognosis. Liver transplant (LT) is the best treatment modality. We aim to assess post-LT morbidity and mortality in patients with cirrhosis and HH.
Research design and methods: Adult patients with cirrhosis, who underwent LT at our institution from 2015 to 2020, were retrospectively reviewed. Baseline data was obtained at the time of LT. Patients were followed from baseline until the last follow-up or death. Censoring occurred at the time of the last follow-up or death, whichever occurred earlier. Cumulative incidence of outcomes was determined by the Kaplan-Meier method. Short-term post-operative complications were compared between both groups as well.
Results: 428 patients had a LT, of which 72 (16.8%) had HH. Most of the baseline characteristics were similar between patients with and without HH; however, patients in the HH group had a higher proportion of pre-operative history of ascites and hepatic encephalopathy. Pre-operative HH was not significantly associated with post-LT mortality (Hazard ratio 1.12, 95% confidence interval 0.54-2.32; P-value 0.76). Patients had similar short-term post-operative complications between both groups.
Conclusions: LT is an excellent therapeutic option for patients with cirrhosis and HH, with excellent long-term survival without increased morbidity.
Keywords: Hepatic decompensation; MELD; ascites; hydrothorax; portal hypertension.