Change in hepatic volume profile in potential live liver donors after lifestyle modification for reduction of hepatic steatosis

Abstract

Purpose We aimed to evaluate changes in hepatic volume and hemiliver volume percentage in potential liver donors after hepatic steatosis (HS) reduction through lifestyle modification. Methods Fifty liver donor candidates with HS (macrovesicular fat [MaF] >= 20%) underwent abdominal computed tomography (CT) and liver biopsy before (baseline) and after (follow-up) lifestyle modification. According to the change in MaF, subjects were classified as group A (MaF reduction >= 20%, n = 25), and group B (MaF reduction < 20%, n = 25). The hepatic volume and hemiliver volume percentage were measured using CT volumetric analysis. Results Volume percentage of the left hemiliver + S1 (over the whole liver) significantly increased at follow-up in group A (P < 0.001) but not in group B (P = 0.598). The absolute volume change of the right hemiliver and its percentage change from the baseline were significantly greater than those of the left hemiliver + S1 in group A (P < 0.007). There were no significant differences in these values in group B (P = 0.064 and 0.507, respectively). The percentage of subjects that earned the benefit of becoming suitable donors from the change in hepatic volume distribution caused by HS improvement was 52.0% (13/25) and 40.0% (10/25) in group A and group B, respectively. Regarding posthepatectomy liver failure, none was identified in group A after donation, whereas 12% (3/25) was identified in group B. Conclusion Hepatic volume profile may change considerably in potential liver donors with HS (MaF >= 20%) after HS reduction through lifestyle modification. Reevaluation of the hepatic volume is required before liver procurement after lifestyle modification in these subjects.