Intensive Care Unit Management of Liver Transplant Patients: A Formidable Challenge for the Intensivist

Abstract

Patients with end-stage liver disease, particular following liver transplantation, are a major challenge for the intensivist. The recipient is at risk for cardiac decompensation, respiratory failure following reperfusion, and kidney failure. This review will focus on these topics to provide useful information concerning pathophysiology and treatment. Intensivists, who are involved in the postoperative care of liver transplant patients, have to be aware of these problems.