In orthotopic liver transplantations (OLT), fresh frozen plasma (FFP)
is classically used to normalize coagulation factor concentrations. In
this study, 28 OLT were performed without the use of FFP. According t
o their preoperative factor V (FV) levels, two groups of patients were
defined: Group 1 (13 patients, FV >10% and <60%) and Group 2 (15 pati
ents, FV >60%). Spontaneous evolution of coagulation factors, concentr
ation, and bleeding were observed during OLT and up to 48 h after surg
ery. Total intraoperative bleeding was similar in both groups (3460 +/
- 2700 mt and 3470 +/- 2110 mt in Groups 1 and 2, respectively). Level
s of clotting factors were not different between groups after the anhe
patic stage. The lowest values were noted after reperfusion, Thirty-si
x hours after surgery, all levels of clotting factors in both groups w
ere more than 50%, with FV level increasing the most rapidly. Hematocr
it from the subhepatic drainage liquid was 1.8% and less than 1% at 24
and 48 h, respectively, after surgery. No reintervention for bleeding
was necessary. These results suggest that, in OLT, correct hemostasis
can be assumed without FFP use when hyperfibrinolysis, platelet count
, fibrinogen rate, and hemodynamic status are controlled.