Liver replacement after massive hepatic trauma.

Two patients sustained massive hepatic injuries from blunt trauma in motor vehicle accidents. At the time of operation, nonreconstructable injuries to the porta hepatis were found in addition to destruction of the right lobe. Life-threatening hemorrhage was controlled, but both patients were left with nonfunctional or inadequate hepatic remnants. Liver transplantation was performed. Both patients recovered after liver replacement. One died 7 weeks later of cytomegalovirus infection. The other recipient is well 16 months later. Liver transplantation is a reasonable option in patients with lethal hepatic injuries or unreconstructable injuries to the porta hepatis.