From the Guidelines
Orthotopic in the context of an orthotopic liver transplant means that the diseased liver is removed and the donor liver is placed in the same anatomical location as the original liver. This is the standard approach for liver transplantation, where the native liver is completely removed and the donor organ is implanted in its normal anatomical position in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, as described in the guidelines for liver transplantation 1. The term "orthotopic" comes from Greek roots meaning "correct place." This approach allows for normal anatomical connections to be established between the transplanted liver and the recipient's blood vessels and bile ducts. Key aspects of this procedure include:
- The hepatic artery, portal vein, and bile ducts are connected to their corresponding structures in the recipient, allowing the new liver to function in its natural position.
- This differs from heterotopic transplantation, which would involve placing the donor organ in a different location while potentially leaving the native organ in place.
- Orthotopic transplantation is preferred because it maintains normal anatomical relationships and physiological function of the liver within the body, as noted in the practice guidelines for liver transplantation 1. Benefits of this approach, as supported by recent medical practices, include improved patient outcomes and quality of life after liver transplantation.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Definition of Orthotopic in Orthotopic Liver Transplant
- Orthotopic refers to the transplantation of an organ into its normal or native position in the body 2.
- In the context of an orthotopic liver transplant, it means that the diseased liver is replaced with a healthy liver (or part of one) from a deceased or living donor, and the new liver is placed in the same location as the original liver 2, 3.
- The term orthotopic is used to distinguish this type of transplant from other types, such as heterotopic transplant, where the new organ is placed in a different location in the body.
Key Characteristics of Orthotopic Liver Transplant
- The procedure involves the substitution of a diseased native liver with a normal liver (or part of one) taken from a deceased or living donor 2.
- The new liver is implanted in an orthotopic position, meaning it is placed in the same location as the original liver 2, 3.
- Orthotopic liver transplantation is considered the treatment of choice for a number of otherwise irreversible forms of acute and chronic liver disease 2.