Should retransplantation still be considered for primary non-function after liver transplantation?

Primary non-function (PNF) of a transplanted liver is a postoperative condition characterized by absence of hepatic recovery due to various insults during harvesting, preservation or revascularization. Until recently early retransplantation (RTx) has been considered the policy of choice. Results of RTx for PNF are unsatisfactory (1-year survival rates ranging from 0 to 34%). The management of PNF by medical care without RTx with a recovery rate of 80% and a 1-year actuarial survival rate of 50% is reported for a series of 33 consecutive liver transplants. The guidelines for the medical care management are given and the results are discussed.