Primary Nonfunction in Liver Transplantation: A Single-Center Experience

Primary nonfunction (PNF) after liver transplantation is life threatening. In recent review of data from Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients on liver transplantations between 2002 and 2004, the rate of PNF was 5.8%. In this study, our aim was to review the incidence and outcome of PNF at our transplant center. From February 1998 through December 2007, 1679 liver transplants were performed. There were 24 PNF (1.4%) in 22 patients. The 6- and 12-month patient survival rates were 72.2% and 633%, respectively. Our results demonstrate a low incidence of PNF at our center. However, the patient survival outcome remains poor. Future investigations to improve survival among liver transplant recipients with PNF are essential.