Transplant Without Borders: Clinical Outcomes and Challenges in Transborder Living Donor Pediatric Liver Transplantation in Jordan.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the clinical outcomes, complications, and logistical challenges of pediatric living donor liver transplantation (LT) in Jordanian children referred abroad, in the absence of a national transplant program.

Patients and methods: This retrospective study reviewed all pediatric cases referred to the Jordanian Center for Organ Transplantation (JCOT) for LT between 2019 and 2023. Data were collected from JCOT records and follow-up interviews with caregivers. Variables included patient demographics, indications for transplantation, donor-recipient relationships, post-operative complications, survival outcomes, and financial aspects.

Results: A total of 31 children were referred for LT, of whom 20 (64.5%) successfully underwent living donor liver transplantation abroad-primarily in Turkey-while 11 (35.5%) remained on the waiting list. Biliary atresia (25%) was the most common indication, followed by Alagille syndrome and progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (each 20%). Primary hyperoxaluria, Crigler-Najjar syndrome, and maple syrup urine disease were also observed. Parents were the most frequent donors (70%). The most common complications were bile duct leakage (35%), portal vein thrombosis (20%), and infections (15%). The 5-year post-transplant survival rate was 90%. Among the waiting list group, four children (36.4%) died before receiving a transplant. No children underwent transplantation for pediatric acute liver failure during the study period. The average cost per transplant covered by the Ministry of Health was $61,071, excluding out-of-pocket expenses borne by families.

Conclusion: This study highlights the feasibility and challenges of transborder pediatric liver transplantation in Jordan. While clinical outcomes for transplanted children were favorable, significant barriers remain, including delayed referrals, financial strain, and mortality among waitlisted patients. These findings underscore the urgent need to establish a national pediatric liver transplant program to improve timely access and long-term care for children with end-stage liver disease in Jordan.