Bile duct diffusion-weighted image hyperintensity predicts intrahepatic biliary complications after ABO-incompatible liver transplantation.

Abstract

Objectives: We assessed the value of the diffusion-weighted image (DWI) for predicting intrahepatic biliary complications (IHBC) after ABO-incompatible liver transplantation (ABOi-LT), potentially leading to refractory cholangitis.

Materials and methods: In this retrospective study at a single center, 56 patients who underwent ABOi-LT from March 2021 to January 2023 were analyzed. All received magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) and DWI during the postoperative hospitalization. MRCP findings, including bile duct DWI hyperintensity, were assessed. Participants suspected of having a biliary infection or obstructive jaundice underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) during the follow-up. Non-anastomotic biliary strictures on cholangiography were classified as IHBC, as either perihilar or diffuse form. DWI hyperintensity was compared between groups with and without IHBC. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for IHBC.

Results: Of the 55 participants (median age 55 years, 39 males), IHBC was diagnosed in eight patients over a median follow-up of 15.9 months (range 5.6-31.1). Bile duct DWI hyperintensity was observed in 18 patients. Those with DWI hyperintensity exhibited a higher IHBC incidence (6/18, 33.3% vs. 2/36, 5.6%; p = 0.01), and more frequently developed the diffuse type IHBC (4/18, 22.2% vs. 1/36, 2.8%; p = 0.04). Regression analysis indicated that bile duct DWI hyperintensity is an independent risk factor for IHBC (odds ratio (OR) 10.1; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4, 71.2; p = 0.02) and its diffuse form (OR 15.3; 95% CI 1.2, 187.8; p = 0.03).

Conclusion: Postoperative DWI hyperintensity of bile ducts can serve as a biomarker predicting IHBC after ABOi-LT.

Clinical relevance statement: Postoperative diffusion-weighted image hyperintensity of the bile duct can be used as a biomarker to predict intrahepatic biliary complications and aid in identifying candidates who may benefit from additional management for antibody-mediated rejection.

Key points: Intrahepatic biliary complications following ABO-incompatible liver transplantation can cause biliary stricture and biloma formation. Bile duct hyperintensity on early postoperative diffusion-weighted imaging was associated with increased intrahepatic biliary complication risk. This marker is an additional method for identifying individuals who require intensive management to prevent complications.