Acute renal failure after liver transplantation: incidence, etiology, therapy, and outcome

Perioperative care in acute liver failure: An anaesthesiologist perspective in the operating theatre

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a life-threatening condition characterized by rapid liver function deterioration, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach for optimal perioperative care. This comprehensive review focuses on the critical role of the anaesthesiologist throughout the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases, addressing the unique challenges posed by ALF. The article begins with an exploration of ALF, underlining the urgency of timely referral to specialized hepatology centres. Liver transplantation emerges as a life-saving intervention, and the complex decision-making process is discussed, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary team to assess transplantation candidacy based on established prognostic criteria. In the preoperative phase, the review stresses the importance of early engagement with tertiary liver centres for timely referrals and identifies patients suitable for transplantation. Safe transport protocols are detailed, highlighting the meticulous planning required for the secure transfer of ALF patients between healthcare facilities. The intraoperative management section delves into the anaesthesiologist's key concerns, including neurological status, sepsis, acute kidney injury, body mass index, and preoperative fasting. Hemodynamic stability, fluid management, and coagulation balance during surgery are emphasized, with insights into anaesthesia techniques, vascular access, monitoring, and hemodynamic management tailored to the challenges posed by ALF patients. The postoperative care is thoroughly examined covering neurological, hemodynamic, metabolic, renal, and nutritional aspects. Management of ALF involves multidisciplinary team, including nephrology for continuous renal replacement therapy, transfusion medicine for plasma exchange, critical care for overall patient care, nutritionists for ensuring adequate nutrition, and hepatologists as the primary guides. In conclusion, the review recognizes the anaesthesiologist as a linchpin in the perioperative care of ALF patients. The integration of safe transport protocols and multidisciplinary approach is deemed crucial for navigating complexities of ALF, contributing to improved patient outcomes. This article serves as an invaluable resource for gastroenterologist and intensivists, enhancing their understanding of the anaesthesiologist's indispensable role in the holistic care of ALF patients in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

[Kidney failure after liver transplantation]

One third of cirrhotic patients present impaired kidney function. It has multifactorial causes and has a harmful effect on patients' morbi-mortality before and after liver transplant. Kidney function does not improve in all patients after liver transplantation and liver-transplant recipients are at high risk of developing chronic kidney disease. Causes for renal dysfunction can be divided in three groups: preoperative, peroperative and postoperative factors. To date, there is no consensus for the modality of evaluation the risk for chronic kidney disease after liver transplantation, and for its prevention. In the present review, we describe the outcome of kidney function after liver transplantation, and the prognostic factors of chronic kidney disease to determine a risk stratification for each patient. Furthermore, we discuss therapeutic options to prevent kidney dysfunction in this setting, and highlight the indications of combined liver-kidney transplantation.

Post-Liver Transplant Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common condition following liver transplantation (LT). It negatively impacts patient outcomes by increasing the chances of developing chronic kidney disease and reducing graft and patient survival rates. Multiple definitions of AKI have been proposed and used throughout the years, with the International Club of Ascites definition being the most widely now used for patients with cirrhosis. Multiple factors are associated with the development of post-LT AKI and can be categorized into pre-LT comorbidities, donor and recipient characteristics, operative factors, and post-LT factors. Many of these factors can be optimized in an attempt to minimize the risk of AKI occurring and to improve renal function if AKI is already present. A special consideration during the post-LT phase is needed for immunosuppression as certain immunosuppressive medications can be nephrotoxic. The calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus (TAC) is the mainstay of immunosuppression but can result in AKI. Several strategies including use of the monoclonoal antibody basilixamab to allow for delayed initiation of tacrolimus therapy and minimization through combination and minimization or elimination of TAC through combination with mycophenolate mofetil or mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors have been implemented to reverse and avoid AKI in the post-LT setting. Renal replacement therapy may ultimately be required to support patients until recovery of AKI after LT. Overall, by improving renal function in post-LT patients with AKI, outcomes can be improved.

Kidney Failure after Liver Transplantation

One-third of patients with cirrhosis present kidney failure (AKI and CKD). It has multifactorial causes and a harmful effect on morbidity and mortality before and after liver transplantation. Kidney function does not improve in all patients after liver transplantation, and liver transplant recipients are at a high risk of developing chronic kidney disease. The causes of renal dysfunction can be divided into three groups: pre-operative, perioperative and post-operative factors. To date, there is no consensus on the modality to evaluate the risk of chronic kidney disease after liver transplantation, or for its prevention. In this narrative review, we describe the outcome of kidney function after liver transplantation, and the prognostic factors of chronic kidney disease in order to establish a risk categorization for each patient. Furthermore, we discuss therapeutic options to prevent kidney dysfunction in this context, and highlight the indications of combined liver–kidney transplantation.

Chronic severe hepatitis and preoperative creatinine are independent risk factors for acute kidney injury after liver transplantation

Background

Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) offers the highest chance of cure in comparison with all other treatment for liver tumors and other end stage liver disease. However, the complications caused by liver transplantation significantly affect its therapeutic effect, and acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most common of these. It is, therefore, necessary to identify the risk factors of AKI after liver transplantation.

Methods

A single-center, retrospective study of patients receiving liver transplantation at the Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital between January 2015 to January 2019 was conducted.

Patients were divided into a normal control group and AKI group based on their previous medical history. Preoperative and intraoperative indicators including preoperative creatinine, uric acid, and the intraoperative input of protein were then recorded.

Results

A total of 419 patients were enrolled into the study. The control group consisted of 336 patients while 83 patients formed an AKI group based on the grading criteria of AKI. There were significant differences in chronic severe hepatitis (P=0.001), liver cancer (P=0.044), intraoperative input of sodium bicarbonate (P=0.019), input of red blood cell suspension (P=0.004), the input of blood plasma (P=0.043), intraoperative urine output (P=0.006), and preoperative creatinine (P=0.041) between the control and AKI group. Multivariate analysis indicated that chronic severe hepatitis (OR: 2.872; P=0.003) and preoperative creatinine (OR: 1.083; P=0.011) were independent risk factors for AKI in patients receiving liver transplantation.

Conclusions

Chronic severe hepatitis and preoperative creatinine may be potential risk factors for the occurrence of AKI after liver transplantation.

Renal Dysfunction after Living-Donor Liver Transplantation: Experience with 500 Cases

Introduction. The possible risk factors for chronic kidney disease in transplant recipients have not been thoroughly investigated after living-donor liver transplantation. Material and Methods. A retrospective cohort study of consecutive adults who underwent living-donor liver transplantation between May 2004 and October 2016, in a single center, was conducted. Kidney function was investigated successively for all the patients throughout the study period, with 12 months being the shortest follow-up. Postoperative renal dysfunction was defined in accordance with the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration criteria. The patients' demographic data, preoperative and intraoperative parameters, and outcomes were recorded. A calcineurin inhibitor-based immunosuppressive regimen, either tacrolimus or cyclosporine, was used in all the patients. Results. Of the 413 patients included in the study, 33 (8%) who survived for ≥1 year experienced chronic kidney disease 1 year after living-donor liver transplantation. Twenty-seven variables were studied to compare between the patients with normal kidney functions and those who developed chronic kidney disease 1 year after living-donor liver transplantation. Univariate regression analysis for predicting the likelihood of chronic kidney disease at 1 year revealed that the following 4 variables were significant: operative time, P < 0.0005; intraoperative blood loss, P < 0.0005; preoperative renal impairment, P = 0.001; and graft-to-recipient weight ratio (as a negative predictor), P < 0.0005. In the multivariate regression analysis, only 2 variables remained as independent predictors of chronic kidney disease at 1 year, namely, operative time with a cutoff value of ≥714 minutes and graft-to-recipient weight ratio as a negative predictor with a cutoff value of <0.91. Conclusion. In this study, prolonged operative time and small graft-to-recipient weight ratio were independent predictors of chronic kidney disease at 1 year after living-donor liver transplantation.

Utility of prothrombin complex concentrate as first-line treatment modality of coagulopathy in patients undergoing liver transplantation: A propensity score-matched study

BACKGROUND

Transfusion management during liver transplantation (LT) is aimed at reducing blood loss and allogeneic transfusion requirements. Although prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) has been used satisfactorily in various bleeding disorders, studies on its safety, and efficacy during LT are limited.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of adult patients who underwent living donor LT at a single institute between October 2016 and January 2018 was carried out. The safety and efficacy of PCC in reducing transfusion requirements intraoperatively in patients who received PCC were compared with patients who did not receive PCC. A propensity score-matching technique was used, at a 1:1 ratio, to remove selection bias.

RESULTS

After completing the 1:1 propensity score-matched analysis, 60 pairs of patients were identified. The use of PCC was associated with significantly decreased red blood cell transfusion requirements (6.2 ± 4.1 vs 8.23 ± 5.18, P < 0.001) and fresh frozen plasma transfusion requirements (2.6 ± 2 vs 6.18 ± 4.1, P < 0.001). The number of patients developing postoperative hemorrhagic complications was higher in the non-PCC group.

CONCLUSIONS

During LT, the use of PCC led to decreased transfusion requirements. No thromboembolic complications related to PCC were noted in this series.

PREOPERATIVE RISK FACTORS FOR ACUTE KIDNEY INJURY AFTER LIVER TRANSPLANTATION: RESULTS FROM A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY IN NORTHEAST OF BRAZIL

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication in the immediate postoperative period of patients undergoing liver transplantation.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate preoperative risk factors for AKI after liver transplantation.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted with adults submitted to orthotopic liver transplantation at a reference hospital in Fortaleza, Northeast of Brazil, from January to December 2016. Preoperative risk factors were evaluated for AKI development in the immediate postoperative period. AKI was defined according to the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 40 patients were included in the study. AKI was found in 85% of patients in the first 24 hours after transplantation, most of them (40%) classified in KDIGO stage 1. Preoperative data indicate that serum albumin levels were lower in the KDIGO stage 3 group compared to the non-AKI group, as well as the hematocrit levels. Direct bilirubin (DB) was higher in the KDIGO stage 3 group compared to the group without AKI, as well as alkaline phosphatase (AP) and gamma-glutamiltransferase (GGT). In a logistic regression analysis independent risk factors for AKI were increase levels of AP, GGT and DB and decrease level of serum albumin.

CONCLUSION

Low levels of serum albumin, and elevated levels of DB, AP and GGT in the preoperative period are risk factors for AKI development after liver transplantation.

Risk factors for acute kidney injury after orthotopic liver transplantation: A single-center data analysis

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication following orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The aim of the current study was to determine the risk factors for AKI in patients undergoing OLT. A total of 103 patients who received OLT between January 2015 and May 2016 in Tongji Hospital, China, were retrospectively analyzed. Their demographic characteristics and perioperative parameters were collected, and AKI was diagnosed using 2012 Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) staging criteria. It was found that the incidence of AKI was 40.8% in this cohort and AKI was significantly associated with body mass index, urine volume, operation duration (especially > 480 min), and the postoperative use of vasopressors. It was concluded that relative low urine output, long operation duration, and the postoperative use of vasopressors are risk factors for AKI following OLT.

Renal function and oxygenation are impaired early after liver transplantation despite hyperdynamic systemic circulation

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) occurs frequently after liver transplantation and is associated with the development of chronic kidney disease and increased mortality. There is a lack of data on renal blood flow (RBF), oxygen consumption, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal oxygenation, i.e. the renal oxygen supply/demand relationship, early after liver transplantation. Increased insight into the renal pathophysiology after liver transplantation is needed to improve the prevention and treatment of postoperative AKI. We have therefore studied renal hemodynamics, function and oxygenation early after liver transplantation in humans.

Methods

Systemic hemodynamic and renal variables were measured during two 30-min periods in liver transplant recipients (n = 12) and post-cardiac surgery patients (controls, n = 73). RBF and GFR were measured by the renal vein retrograde thermodilution technique and by renal extraction of Cr-EDTA (= filtration fraction), respectively. Renal oxygenation was estimated from the renal oxygen extraction.

Results

In the liver transplant group, GFR decreased by 40% (p < 0.05), compared to the preoperative value. Cardiac index and systemic vascular resistance index were 65% higher (p < 0.001) and 36% lower (p < 0.001), respectively, in the liver transplant recipients compared to the control group. GFR was 27% (p < 0.05) and filtration fraction 40% (p < 0.01) lower in the liver transplant group. Renal vascular resistance was 15% lower (p < 0.05) and RBF was 18% higher (p < 0.05) in liver transplant recipients, but the ratio between RBF and cardiac index was 27% lower (p < 0.001) among the liver-transplanted patients compared to the control group. Renal oxygen consumption and extraction were both higher in the liver transplants, 44% (p < 0.01) and 24% (p < 0.05) respectively.

Conclusions

Despite the hyperdynamic systemic circulation and renal vasodilation, there is a severe decline in renal function directly after liver transplantation. This decline is accompanied by an impaired renal oxygenation, as the pronounced elevation of renal oxygen consumption is not met by a proportional increase in renal oxygen delivery. This information may provide new insights into renal pathophysiology as a basis for future strategies to prevent/treat AKI after liver transplantation.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02455115. Registered on 23 April 2015.

Outcomes of liver transplantation in patients with hepatorenal syndrome

Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) plays an important role in patients with liver cirrhosis on the wait list for liver transplantation (LT). The 1 and 5-year probability of developing HRS in cirrhotic with ascites is 20% and 40%, respectively. In this article, we reviewed current concepts in HRS pathophysiology, guidelines for HRS diagnosis, effective treatment options presently available, and controversies surrounding liver alone vs simultaneous liver kidney transplant (SLKT) in transplant candidates. Many treatment options including albumin, vasoconstrictors, renal replacement therapy, and eventual LT have remained a mainstay in the treatment of HRS. Unfortunately, even after aggressive measures such as terlipressin use, the rate of recovery is less than 50% of patients. Moreover, current SLKT guidelines include: (1) estimation of glomerular filtration rate of 30 mL/min or less for 4-8 wk; (2) proteinuria > 2 g/d; or (3) biopsy proven interstitial fibrosis or glomerulosclerosis. Even with these updated criteria there is a lack of consistency regarding long-term benefits for SLKT vs LT alone. Finally, in regards to kidney dysfunction in the post-transplant setting, an estimation of glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min per 1.73 m² may be associated with an increased risk of patients having long-term end stage renal disease. HRS is common in patients with cirrhosis and those on liver transplant waitlist. Prompt identification and therapy initiation in transplant candidates with HRS may improve post-transplantation outcomes. Future studies identifying optimal vasoconstrictor regimens, alternative therapies, and factors predictive of response to therapy are needed. The appropriate use of SLKT in patients with HRS remains controversial and requires further evidence by the transplant community.

Sodium bicarbonate infusion in patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation: a single center randomized controlled pilot trial

BACKGROUND

Liver transplantation-associated acute kidney injury (AKI) carries significant morbidity and mortality. We hypothesized that sodium bicarbonate would reduce the incidence and/or severity of liver transplantation-associated AKI.

METHODS

In this double-blinded pilot RCT, adult patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation were randomized to an infusion of either 8.4% sodium bicarbonate (0.5 mEq/kg/h for the first hour; 0.15 mEq/kg/h until completion of surgery); (n = 30) or 0.9% sodium chloride (n = 30).

PRIMARY OUTCOME

AKI within the first 48 h post-operatively.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the two treatment groups with regard to baseline characteristics, model for end-stage liver disease and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) II scores, and pre-transplantation renal function. Intra-operative factors were similar for duration of surgery, blood product requirements, crystalloid and colloid volumes infused and requirements for vasoactive therapy. Eleven patients (37%) in the bicarbonate group and 10 patients (33%) in the sodium chloride group developed a post-operative AKI (p = 0.79). Bicarbonate infusion attenuated the degree of immediate post-operative metabolic acidosis; however, this effect dissipated by 48 h. There were no significant differences in ventilation hours, ICU or hospital length of stay, or mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The intra-operative infusion of sodium bicarbonate did not decrease the incidence of AKI in patients following orthotopic liver transplantation.

Incidence and risk factors for early renal dysfunction after liver transplantation

AIM: To determine renal dysfunction post liver transplantation, its incidence and risk factors in patients from a Belgian University Hospital.

METHODS: Orthotopic liver transplantations performed from January 2006 until September 2012 were retrospectively reviewed (n = 187). Patients with no renal replacement therapy (RRT) before transplantation were classified into four groups according to their highest creatinine plasma level during the first postoperative week. The first group had a peak creatinine level below 12 mg/L, the second group between 12 and 20 mg/L, the third group between 20 and 35 mg/L, and the fourth above 35 mg/L. In addition, patients who needed RRT during the first week after transplantation were also classified into the fourth group. Perioperative parameters were recorded as risk factors, namely age, sex, body mass index (BMI), length of preoperative hospital stay, prior bacterial infection within one month, preoperative ascites, preoperative treatment with β-blocker, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, preoperative creatinine and bilirubin levels, donor status (cardiac death or brain death), postoperative lactate level, need for intraoperative vasopressive drugs, surgical revision, mechanical ventilation for more than 24 h, postoperative bilirubin and transaminase peak levels, postoperative hemoglobin level, amount of perioperative blood transfusions and type of immunosuppression. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed using logistic ordinal regression method. Post hoc analysis of the hemostatic agent used was also done.

RESULTS: There were 78 patients in group 1 (41.7%), 46 in group 2 (24.6%), 38 in group 3 (20.3%) and 25 in group 4 (13.4%). Twenty patients required RRT: 13 (7%) during the first week after transplantation. Using univariate analysis, the severity of renal dysfunction was correlated with presence of ascites and prior bacterial infection, preoperative bilirubin, urea and creatinine level, need for surgical revision, use of vasopressor, postoperative mechanical ventilation, postoperative bilirubin and urea, aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), and hemoglobin levels and the need for transfusion. The multivariate analysis showed that BMI (OR = 1.1, P = 0.004), preoperative creatinine level (OR = 11.1, P < 0.0001), use of vasopressor (OR = 3.31, P = 0.0002), maximal postoperative bilirubin level (OR = 1.44, P = 0.044) and minimal postoperative hemoglobin level (OR = 0.059, P = 0.0005) were independent predictors of early post-liver transplantation renal dysfunction. Neither donor status nor ASAT levels had significant impact on early postoperative renal dysfunction in multivariate analysis. Absence of renal dysfunction (group 1) was also predicted by the intraoperative hemostatic agent used, independently of the extent of bleeding and of the preoperative creatinine level.

CONCLUSION: More than half of receivers experienced some degree of early renal dysfunction after liver transplantation. Main predictors were preoperative renal dysfunction, postoperative anemia and vasopressor requirement.

Acute Renal Injury Evaluation After Liver Transplantation: With RIFLE Criteria

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to identify acute renal injury (ARI) through the use of RIFLE (risk, injury, failure, loss, end-stage kidney disease) criteria and to investigate perioperative risk factors for ARI in liver transplantation (LT).

METHODS

We reviewed medical records of adult LT patients retrospectively. Postoperative ARI was staged with RIFLE criteria by the 1st and 7th days of the surgery.

RESULTS

We analyzed 440 adult LT patients, categorized as risk (R), injury (I), or failure (F) according to the RIFLE criteria. In this study, in the first postoperative day, incidence of ARI was 7.95%; all of them were R-class, and, on the 7th day, the incidence of ARI was 7.27%, as R-class 6.59% and I-class 0.68%. Significant risk factors were detected within the first postoperative day including pre-operative hemoglobin levels <9 g/dL (P = .019), intra-operative transfusion of red blood cells (RBCs) (P = .049) and fresh-frozen plasma (FFP) (P = .049), blood loss (P = .011), and post-reperfusion syndrome (P = .023). Multivariate analysis revealed risk factors for ARI as RBCs (odds ratio [OR], 1.049; P = .247) and FFP (OR, 1.017; P = .627) transfusion and blood loss (OR, 1.000; P = .021) (blood loss OR: 0.9996952300184; 95% confidence interval: 0.9994356774026 to 0.999548500399). The only significant risk factor for the 7th postoperative day was the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score (>20) (P = .002).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that RBC and FFP transfusion, perioperative blood loss, and MELD score >20 are risk factors for LT-related ARI. Also normalization of hemoglobin levels with non-blood products in patients with preoperative low hemoglobin levels can diminish the need for RBC and that can prevent ARI.

Incidence and Outcomes of Acute Renal Failure Following Liver Transplantation: A Population-Based Cohort Study

The aim of our large, population-based, cohort study was to explore the risk factors of acute renal failure (ARF) after liver transplant (LT) in Taiwan.From the Taiwanese National Health Insurance Research Database, 2862 patients who had undergone LT without pretransplant dialysis between July 1, 1998, and December 31, 2012, were identified. Preoperative, operative, and perioperative risks factors were considered and analyzed using logistic regression analysis, after adjusting for age and sex. All patients were followed up until the study endpoint or death.The final dataset included 214 patients with ARF and 2648 without ARF post-LT. Preoperative cerebrovascular diseases were the most important identifiable risk factor for ARF post-LT. Comparison of outcomes for patients "with" and "without" ARF indicated higher incidence rates of bacteremia, pneumonia, and postoperative bleeding, as well as longer stays in both intensive care unit and hospital. Kaplan-Meier mortality curves identified higher rates of mortality for patients' developing ARF at 1-year post-LT and overall at 14.5 years postsurgery.We provide evidence of a high incidence of ARF post-LT in Taiwan, with documented association of ARF with higher incidence rates of morbidity and mortality in this clinical population. The most important identifiable risk factor for ARF in our study was cerebrovascular diseases.

The ratio of plasma interleukin-18 is a sensitive biomarker for acute kidney injury after liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common after liver transplantation (OLT) and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Previous studies have shown that interleukin-18 (IL-18) levels are associated with AKI. The purpose of this study was to determine whether plasma IL-18 levels were early predictors for AKI after liver transplantation.

METHODS

Plasma samples were obtained from 26 patients who underwent OLT at induction of anesthesia (T1), 1 hour after the surgical incision (T2), the time of reperfusion (T3), as well as 1 (T4), 2 (T5), and 4 hours (T6) after reperfusion. Samples were also obtained at 24 hours after surgery (T7). The AKI criteria were taken according to the Acute Kidney Injury Network criteria.

RESULTS

Twelve patients (46%) developed AKI after OLT. The area under the receiver operating curve of plasma IL-18 concentrations (T4/T1) to predict AKI occurrence was 0.842 at T5, 0.905 at T6, 0.726 at T7, and 0.726 at T5 to T7.

CONCLUSION

Plasma IL-18 concentrations taken 1 hour after reperfusion were predictive of AKI. Therefore, changing IL-18 ratio may be an early predictor for AKI after OLT.

The impact of everolimus on renal function in maintenance liver transplantation

We retrospectively investigated the impact on renal function (RF) of conversion from calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) to everolimus (EVL) monotherapy in orthotopic liver transplant (OLT) recipients. Between January 2006 and July 2007, 70 deceased donor OLT recipients including 51 men and 19 women of overall mean age of 55.9 +/- 11 years were enrolled into a program of conversion to EVL monotherapy at a mean interval of 45 +/- 35.9 months from transplantation (range, 7-192 months). The indication for conversion was deteriorating RF in 64 (91.4%). Efficacy failure was defined as the persistence of CNI, EVL discontinuation, death, graft loss, loss to follow-up, or need for dialysis at 12 months. Twelve months after switching, 53 patients (75.7%) were on EVL monotherapy. Their mean change in creatinine clearance (CrCl) from baseline (day 1 before EVL introduction) to endpoint (12 months) was 5.8 +/- 13.1 mL/min. On univariate and multivariate analyses, the clinical variable correlated with the greatest probability of improvement was the baseline CrCl (P < .0001). Conversion from CNI to EVL monotherapy was successful in 75.7% of cases with improvement in RF correlated with baseline CrCl. These data supported preemptive minimization of CNI in the posttransplant course, seeking to delay the decline in RF.

A meta-analysis of complications following deceased donor liver transplant

BACKGROUND

Liver transplantation is a complex surgery associated with high rates of postoperative complications. While national outcomes data are available, national rates of most complications are unknown.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic review of the literature reporting rates of postoperative complications between 2002 and 2012 was performed. A cohort of 29,227 deceased donor liver transplant recipients from 74 studies was used to calculate pooled incidences for 17 major postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first comprehensive review of postoperative complications after liver transplantation and can serve as a guide for transplant and nontransplant clinicians. Efforts to collect national data on complications, such as through the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program, would improve the ability to provide patients with informed consent, serve as a tool for individual center performance monitoring, and provide a central source against which to measure interventions aimed at improving patient care.

The effect of octreotide on urine output during orthotopic liver transplantation and early postoperative renal function; a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Maintenance of the adequate intraoperative renal perfusion is very important during Orthotopic Liver Transplantation (OLT) to prevent acute renal failure.

OBJECTIVES

For the first time, this study was designed to survey the effects of octreotide on urine output during anesthesia for OLT and early postoperative renal function.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this randomized double-blind placebo controlled clinical trial, 79 of 89 patients who underwent OLT and fulfilled the study requirement were randomly allocated into two groups. In the octreotide group, the patients received octreotide infusion from the start of the operation. On the other hand, the control group patients received physiologic saline infusion instead of octreotide. The Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP), heart rate, urine output, norepinephrine usage, and dosage during the three stages of OLT, and baseline and postoperative creatinine were recorded and compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

No significant differences were found between the two groups regarding the demographic characteristics and graft factors (P > 0.05). However, urine output and MAP during the three stages of OLT were significantly higher in the octreotide group compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Moreover, no significant difference was observed between the two groups regarding baseline as well as postoperative creatinine (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrated that octreotide infusion during anesthesia for OLT not only augmented the vasoconstriction effect of norepinephrine to increase MAP, but also maintained better renal perfusion and urine output during the operation.

Acute kidney injury after orthotopic liver transplantation

Acute kidney injury (AKI), one of the most frequent complications in the early period after liver transplantation, causes serious obstacles in the management of these patients affecting their outcomes. We studied retrospectively 79 subjects who underwent orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). AKI was defined as an elevation of serum creatinine 1.5 times above baseline or an absolute serum creatinine level > 2 mg/dL. Our aim was to analyze the incidence, correlation with prior renal impairment, outcomes of AKI after OLT. Twenty-two patients (29.3%) developed AKI after OLT with 31.81% of the requiring renal replacement therapy. Among patients with AKI the duration of mechanical ventilation was prolonged (P = .001), length of stay in the intensive care unit was greater (P = .001), infections were more common (P = .016), and 30-day and 1-year mortality rates higher (P = .018). Logistic regression analysis showed post-OLT AKI to be an independent risk factor for 1-year mortality after OLT.

Prevalence and predictors of acute renal injury in liver transplant recipients

Renal failure is a major factor impacting liver transplant outcomes. Renal functional impairment predicts decreased survival, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence, risk factors, and resolution of acute kidney injury (AKI) among liver transplant recipients during the operative hospital stay. We analyzed data from 99 orthotopic liver transplantations (OLT) performed at our center in 2008. Posttransplantation occurrence of AKI was defined as an increase in serum creatinine (SCr) concentration of 0.3 mg/dL or more, namely, 1.5-fold from baseline. AKI was observed among 31.31% of liver transplant recipients (n = 31). The mean increase in SCr was 2.49 +/- 0.78-fold from baseline. The mean posttransplant SCr level was 2.59 +/- 0.92 mg/dL. Renal replacement therapy was introduced to 16.12% (n = 5) liver recipients developing AKI. Among them, 2 subjects (6.45%) died. The mean SCr level at the time of discharge from the hospital was 1.17 +/- 0.57 mg/dL among the AKI group compared with 0.77 +/- 0.32 mg/dL among the group without AKI. Pretransplant renal impairment expressed by an elevated SCr concentration (relative risk [RR] = 1.25; P = .0386) and treatment with exogenous vasoconstrictors during the operation (RR = 2.27; P = .016) were identified as risk factors for developing AKI after liver transplantation.

Postoperative Care of the Liver-Transplant Patient

Liver transplantation (LT) is performed to improve life expectancy and quality of life in patients with advanced chronic liver disease (CLD), and to save life in the context of acute liver failure (ALF). These two groups of patients differ significantly in terms of mean age, prior comorbidity, and degree of extra-hepatic organ dysfunction, requiring substantially different approaches to supportive care. Common aspects of care are those directed at the transplanted organ itself, with regard to monitoring and recognition of early dysfunction, initiation of immunosuppression, and management of surgical complications. Close liaison with the multidisciplinary team, which will include the intensivist, transplant surgeon, transplant hepatologist, anesthesiologist, and radiologist, is required.

[Liver transplantation: influence of donor-related factors]

OBJECTIVE

To detect donor characteristics related to graft function after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT).

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

CONTEXT

Polyvalent intensive care unit.

PATIENTS

145 liver transplant recipients and their respective donors.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MAIN VARIABLES OF INTEREST

In donors: age, hypernatremia, and infection. In recipients: reperfusion syndrome, coagulopathy, infection, ARDS, shock, kidney failure, primary graft dysfunction, and mortality.

RESULTS

71.7% of recipients were male. Mean recipient age was 54.5 +/- 9.9 years; 66.2% of patients were classified as Child B and and 19.3% as Child C. The mean model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score was 14.6 +/- 4.8 and the mean APACHE II score was 17.3 +/- 4.9. A total of 64.1% of the donors were male. Mean donor age was 42.3 +/- 16.3 years, and mean APACHE II score was 22.3 +/- 5.8. Donor age > 65 years was associated to higher recipient aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels but not to increased complications or mortality. No other donor factors (including age, sex, serum sodium, severity level, transfusions, hemodynamic alterations, renal dysfunction, or infection) were associated to evolution or prognosis. Infection was diagnosed in 18 recipients (12.4%) in the postoperative period; the incidence of infection in recipients that received an organ from infected donors was not different from those that received an organ from an uninfected donor (14.6% versus 11.5%; p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

We detected no donor characteristics related to graft function or the appearance of complications in recipients during the immediate postoperative period. Donor age > 65 years and documented but appropriately treated bacteremia posed no risk for the viability of the liver after transplantation.

The impact of aprotinin on renal function after liver transplantation: an analysis of 1,043 patients

Renal dysfunction is frequently seen after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Aprotinin is an antifibrinolytic drug which reduces blood loss during OLT. Recent studies in cardiac surgery suggested a higher risk of postoperative renal complications when aprotinin is used. The impact of aprotinin on renal function after OLT, however, is unknown. In 1,043 adults undergoing OLT, we compared postoperative renal function in patients who received aprotinin (n = 653) or not (n = 390). Using propensity score stratification (C-index 0.82) and multivariate regression analysis, aprotinin was identified as a risk factor for severe renal dysfunction within the first week, defined as increase in serum creatinine by >or= 100% (OR = 1.97, 95% CI = 1.14-3.39; p = 0.02). No differences in renal function were noted at 30 and 365 days postoperatively. Moreover, no significant differences were found in the need for renal replacement therapy (OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 0.94-2.46; p = 0.11) or in 1-year patient survival rate (OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 0.73-1.77; p = 0.64) in patients who received aprotinin or not. In conclusion, aprotinin is associated with a higher risk of transient renal dysfunction in the first week after OLT, but not with a higher need for postoperative renal replacement therapy or an increased risk of mortality.

Hepatorenal syndrome: a proposal for kidney after liver transplantation (KALT)

Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a well-recognized complication of end-stage liver disease. Once thought to be a reversible condition with liver transplantation (LT) alone, HRS may directly contribute to the requirement for long-term dialysis posttransplant. As a result, discussion has now focused on whether or when a kidney allograft should be considered for these patients. Using the International Ascites Club guidelines with a pretransplant serum creatinine (SCr) >2.0 mg/dL to define HRS, 130 patients undergoing LT over a 10-yr period were identified, for an overall incidence of 9%. Patient survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 yr were 74%, and 68%, and 62%, respectively. Survival was significantly worse when compared to non-HRS patients undergoing LT over the same study period (P = 0.0001). For patients presenting with type 2 HRS, 7 patients (6%) developed irreversible kidney failure posttransplant compared to 0.34% in the non-HRS population (P < 0.0001). Five of these patients died within 1 yr with a median survival time of 139 days. Combined liver and kidney transplantation (CLKT) for patients with HRS is not recommended. However, an improvement in outcome can be accomplished by addressing those patients who require dialysis greater than 60 days posttransplant. We propose a role for kidney after liver transplantation (KALT) in select HRS patients.

Application of rapamycin in liver transplant patients with acute kidney malfunction

AIM: To explore the preventive effect of rapamycin on acute allograft rejection and kidney function recovery in liver transplant patients with acute kidney malfunction.

METHODS: A total of 25 liver transplant patients with acute kidney malfunction received rapamycin treatment as preventive measures for acute allograft rejection. Both the rejection rate and the change of kidney function were monitored.

RESULTS: Of the 25 cases, 23 survived till today with the longest time of 34 mo. The 3-mo acute rejection rate was 4%, and the kidney function of the 23 patients recovered to the normal range within 3 mo. It took more time to recover for the patients with impaired kidney function (45 ± 19 d) than that for the ones with normal kidney function (24 ± 15 d) before operation (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION: Rapamycin can prevent the occurrence of acute allograft rejection for liver transplant patients with acute kidney malfunction, while not affect the recovery of kidney function.