Liver transplantation and its long-term management in children.

Liver transplantation is an effective treatment for end-stage liver disease in the pediatric population. The 1-year survival rate in the United States is now approximately 80%, with some series showing a 90% 1-year survival rate. Most children who receive liver transplantation attain normal growth and development. Many pitfalls remain, however, in the treatment for pediatric liver disease with transplantation, including donor-organ scarcity and immunosuppression-related side effects. This article reviews indications for liver transplantation and clinical management of patients who receive liver transplantation.