Diagnostic Tools and Intervention in Transplantation – Radiological Intervention

Dr. Nurhayati Mokhty
Damansara Specialist Hospital

A transplant is a precious commodity. Its success is highly dependant upon the correct selection of patients before transplantation, accurate diagnosis and treatment of post transplant complications. Interventional Radiology plays an important role in a successful transplant program.

Interventional Radiology is useful prior to surgery while waiting for an available organ. This includes transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in patients with severe portal hypertension and the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Interventional Radiology has an important role in the assessment and management of post operative complications. The role of radiology after transplantation is to assess the integrity of anastomosis of the vessels, the biliary duct and ureter, early detection and treatment of complications and to assess and treat complications related to immunosuppression, i.e. rejection, infection and malignancy.

Its role is likely to increase further as technological advances expand the scope for minimally invasive therapies.