Massive haemorrhage in liver transplantation: Consequences, prediction and management

Postoperative fluid balance and outcomes in pediatric living-donor liver transplant recipients: a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between postoperative fluid balance (FB) and clinical outcomes in pediatric living-donor liver transplant (LDLT) recipients.

METHODS

This retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary care center. Patients aged ≤ 18 years who underwent LDLT between January 2010 and September 2023 were included. Postoperative FB was calculated as [(total fluid intake-total fluid output) / body weight] × 100 for 48 h. Patients were categorized into four groups: < 5%, 5-10%, 10-15%, and ≥ 15% FB. The primary outcome was ventilator-free days (VFD) within 30 days post-transplantation. Secondary outcomes included acute kidney injury (AKI), reintubation, hepatic arterial thrombosis, acute rejection, primary graft dysfunction, intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS), and mortality.

RESULTS

The study included 200 patients with a median weight of 9.0 (interquartile range [IQR]: 6.9-19.3) kg. Median VFD did not significantly differ across the FB groups: < 5% FB, 29.3 (IQR, 28.3-29.4) days; 5-10% FB, 29.3 (IQR, 28.3-29.4) days; 10-15% FB, 29.3 (IQR, 28.3-29.4) days; and ≥ 15% FB, 27.4 (IQR, 23.3-29.4) days (p = 0.27). However, multivariable analysis showed ≥ 15% FB was associated with 4.59 days shorter VFD (p = 0.004) and higher AKI incidence (odds ratio: 6.60, p = 0.012). Thrombosis occurred in 7 patients (3.5%) with no significant differences among groups (p = 0.61). Other secondary outcomes showed no significant differences.

CONCLUSION

Excessive postoperative FB (≥ 15%) in pediatric LDLT recipients was significantly associated with reduced VFD and increased AKI incidence, whereas other adverse outcomes were not significantly affected.

Practical Coagulation Management in Liver Transplantation Through Point-of-Care Analysis Using the TEG 6s Global Hemostasis System in Japan

Liver transplantation (LT) is the standard treatment for end-stage liver disease. However, owing to a precarious balance between pro- and anticoagulation factors, patients undergoing LT are at high risk of massive bleeding and vascular thromboembolic complications. Thromboelastography (TEG) allows for the rapid, comprehensive, and accurate identification of coagulation monitoring undergoing LT. Newly released TEG 6s global hemostasis systems have been introduced, which we hypothesized could contribute to practical coagulation management in LT. TEG 6s was used for 15 patients undergoing LT at eight preset times during and after LT. Anesthesiologists and a surgical intensive care team managed coagulation during and after LT, based fully on TEG 6s findings. We focused on the citrated kaolin reaction time, citrated kaolin maximum amplitude, and functional fibrinogen maximum amplitude. TEG 6s was also used to determine transfusion principles with a focus on the details of cases with difficult to manage coagulation. Among 15 LT patients, six had massive bleeding-related complications and vascular thromboembolic complications. Case management and detailed TEG 6s results were reviewed. We recommend using the TEG 6s to obtain a comprehensive understanding of coagulation management as this global hemostasis system offers superior insights compared with standard laboratory tests.

Risk factors associated with blood transfusion in liver transplantation

To explore preoperative and operative risk factors for red blood cell (RBC) transfusion requirements during liver transplantation (LT) and up to 24 h afterwards. We evaluated the associations between risk factors and units of RBC transfused in 176 LT patients using a log-binomial regression model. Relative risk was adjusted for age, sex, and the model for end-stage liver disease score (MELD) (adjustment 1) and baseline hemoglobin concentration (adjustment 2). Forty-six patients (26.14%) did not receive transfusion. Grafts from cardiac-death donors were used in 32.61% and 31.54% of non-transfused and transfused patients, respectively. The transfused group required more reoperation for bleeding (P = 0.035), longer mechanical ventilation after LT (P < 0.001), and longer ICU length of stay (P < 0.001). MELD and hemoglobin concentrations determined RBC requirements. For each unit of increase in the MELD score, 2% more RBC units were transfused, and non-transfusion was 0.83-fold less likely. For each 10-g/L higher hemoglobin concentration at baseline, 16% less RBC transfused, and non-transfusion was 1.95-fold more likely. Ascites was associated with 26% more RBC transfusions. With an increase of 2 mm from the baseline in the A10FIBTEM measurement of maximum clot firmness, non-transfusion was 1.14-fold more likely. A 10-min longer cold ischemia time was associated with 1% more RBC units transfused, and the presence of post-reperfusion syndrome with 45% more RBC units. We conclude that preoperative correction of anemia should be included in LT. An intervention to prevent severe hypotension and fibrinolysis during graft reperfusion should be explored.Trial register: European Clinical Trials Database (EudraCT 2018-002,510-13) and ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01539057).

Perioperative Fluid Management in Paediatric Liver Transplantation: A Systematic Review

Perioperative fluid management remains a challenging aspect of paediatric liver transplantation (LT) because of the risk of postoperative complications and haemodynamic instability. Limited research has specifically investigated the impact of fluid management and transfusion on mortality and morbidity in pediatric LT patients. This systematic review summarizes the evidence regarding perioperative fluid management and its clinical outcomes in paediatric LT patients. All primary studies published in English evaluating perioperative fluid management in paediatric LT patients were eligible. PubMed, EBSCOHost, Embase, Proquest, and Google Scholar databases were searched from inception to December 19, 2023. Risks of bias were assessed using the Joanna-Briggs Institute checklist. The results were synthesized narratively. Five retrospective cohort studies of good-excellent quality were included in this review. Two studies evaluated intraoperative fluid administration, one study compared postoperative fluid balance (FB) with outcomes, and two studies compared massive versus non-massive transfusion. A higher mortality rate was associated with intravenous lactated ringer's (LR) than with normal saline, but not with massive transfusion (MT). Longer hospital stays were correlated with MT, >20% positive FB in the first 72 hours, and greater total intraoperative blood product administration. Higher intraoperative fluid administration was associated with a greater thrombotic risk. Additionally, intraoperative MT and lR infusion were associated with an increased risk of 30-day graft loss and graft dysfunction, respectively. Fluid management may impact the outcomes of paediatric LT recipients. These findings underscore the need for more studies to explore the best fluid management and evaluation strategies for children undergoing LT.

Risk factors and crucial prognostic indicators of mortality in liver transplant recipients with bloodstream infections: A comprehensives study of 1049 consecutive liver transplants over an 11-year period

BACKGROUND

Liver transplantation (LT) is a pivotal treatment for end-stage liver disease. However, bloodstream infections (BSI) in the post-operative period present a significant threat to patient survival. This study aims to identify risk factors for post-LT BSI and crucial prognostic indicators for mortality among affected patients.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of adults diagnosed with end-stage liver disease who underwent their initial LT between 2010 and 2021. Those who developed BSI post-LT during the same hospital admission were classified into the BSI group.

RESULTS

In this cohort of 1049 patients, 89 (8.4%) developed BSI post-LT, while 960 (91.5%) did not contract any infection. Among the BSI cases, 17 (19.1%) patients died. The average time to BSI onset was 48 days, with 46% occurring within the first month post-LT. Of the 123 isolated microorganisms, 97 (78.8%) were gram-negative bacteria. BSI patients had significantly longer stays in the intensive care unit and hospital compared to non-infected patients. The 90-day and in-hospital mortality rates for recipients with BSI were significantly higher than those without infections. Multivariate analysis indicated heightened BSI risk in patients with blood loss >3000 mL during LT (odds ratio [OR] 2.128), re-operation within 30 days (OR 2.341), post-LT bile leakage (OR 3.536), and graft rejection (OR 2.194). Additionally, chronic kidney disease (OR 6.288), each 1000 mL increase in intraoperative blood loss (OR 1.147) significantly raised mortality risk in BSI patients, whereas each 0.1 mg/dL increase in albumin levels correlated with a lower risk of death from BSI (OR 0.810).

CONCLUSIONS

This study underscores the need for careful monitoring and management in the post-LT period, especially for patients at higher risk of BSI. It also suggests that serum albumin levels could serve as a valuable prognostic indicator for outcomes in LT recipients experiencing BSI.

Impact of blood salvage therapy during oncologic liver surgeries on allogenic transfusion events, survival, and recurrence: an ambidirectional cohort study

INTRODUCTION

The use of autologous blood transfusions in oncologic surgeries is somewhat controversial due to the potential risk of disease dissemination through the salvage process. On the other hand, autologous blood transfusion can prevent the potential negative effects of allogenic blood transfusions and reduce use of valuable resources.

METHODS

This study included 106 adult patients who underwent oncologic liver surgery at our institution between December 2015 and June 2019. The patients were divided into two groups: the Cell Saver group (operated between January 2018 and June 2019) and the control group (operated between December 2015 and December 2017). The Cell Saver device was present in the operating room for the Cell Saver group, and blood was retransfused if a certain amount of blood loss occurred. Data analysis focused on outcomes such as blood transfusion requirements, overall survival, recurrence-free survival, hemoglobin levels, hospital stay, and complications. Patient records provided relevant information on demographics, surgery details, pathology, and outcomes for both groups.

RESULTS

Autologous blood transfusion was found to reduce the amount of blood units needed (4.0 units (control group) versus 0.4 units (Cell Saver group) P =0.029. Kaplan-Meier curves showed no difference for both overall survival 471.6 days (Cell Saver group) versus 468.3 days (control group) ( P =0.219) and 488.9 days (Cell Saver group) versus 487.2 days (control group) ( P =0.993) and disease-free survival ( P =0.553) and ( P =0.735) for primary hepatic tumors and hepatic metastasis respectively between the Cell Saver and control groups. Overall survival regardless of the type of tumor was similar to the control group (485.4 days vs. 481.9 days) ( P =0.503). Survival was significantly lower for minor hepatectomies (516.0 days vs. 517.4 days) ( P =0.050) in the Cell Saver group, major hepatectomies showed no difference in overall survival (470.2 days vs. 466.4 days) ( P =0.868). No impact on disease recurrence was found between patients who received autologous blood transfusions versus those who did not.

CONCLUSION

The use of Cell Saver should not be avoided in oncologic surgeries of the liver. Use of Cell Saver for major hepatectomies might be more beneficial as OS was significantly lower for the Cell Saver group for patients who underwent minor hepactomies. Further research is needed to explain this conflicting result. Nonetheless, the use of Cell Saver in autologous blood transfusions can reduce the use of valuable resources and the risks associated with allogenic blood transfusions.

Efficacy of intraoperative blood salvage and autotransfusion in living-donor liver transplantation: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Liver transplantation (LT) may be associated with massive blood loss and the need for allogeneic blood transfusion. Intraoperative blood salvage autotransfusion (IBSA) can reduce the need for allogeneic blood transfusion. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of blood salvage in LT.

METHODS

Among 355 adult patients who underwent elective living-donor LT between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2022, 59 recipients without advanced hepatocellular carcinoma received IBSA using Cell Saver (CS group). Based on sex, age, model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score, preoperative laboratory results, and other factors, 118 of the 296 recipients who did not undergo IBSA were matched using propensity score (non-CS group). The primary outcome was the amount of intraoperative allogenic red blood cell (RBC) transfusion. Comparisons were made between the two groups regarding the amount of other blood components transfused and postoperative laboratory findings.

RESULTS

The transfused allogeneic RBC for the CS group was significantly lower than that of the non-CS group (1,506.0 vs. 1,957.5 ml, P = 0.026). No significant differences in the transfused total fresh frozen plasma, platelets, cryoprecipitate, and estimated blood loss were observed between the two groups. The postoperative allogeneic RBC transfusion was significantly lower in the CS group than in the non-CS group (1,500.0 vs. 2,100.0 ml, P = 0.039). No significant differences in postoperative laboratory findings were observed at postoperative day 1 and discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Using IBSA during LT can effectively reduce the need for perioperative allogeneic blood transfusions without causing subsequent coagulopathy.

Analyzing and modeling massive transfusion strategies and the role of fibrinogen-How much is the patient actually receiving?

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhage is a leading cause of preventable death in trauma, cardiac surgery, liver transplant, and childbirth. While emphasis on protocolization and ratio of blood product transfusion improves ability to treat hemorrhage rapidly, tools to facilitate understanding of the overall content of a specific transfusion strategy are lacking. Medical modeling can provide insights into where deficits in treatment could arise and key areas for clinical study. By using a transfusion model to gain insight into the aggregate content of massive transfusion protocols (MTPs), clinicians can optimize protocols and create opportunities for future studies of precision transfusion medicine in hemorrhage treatment.

METHODS

The transfusion model describes the individual round and aggregate content provided by four rounds of MTP, illustrating that the total content of blood elements and coagulation factor changes over time, independent of the patient's condition. The configurable model calculates the aggregate hematocrit, platelet concentration, percent volume plasma, total grams and concentration of citrate, percent volume anticoagulant and additive solution, and concentration of clotting factors: fibrinogen, factor XIII, factor VIII, and von Willebrand factor, provided by the MTP strategy.

RESULTS

Transfusion strategies based on a 1:1:1 or whole blood foundation provide between 13.7 and 17.2 L of blood products over four rounds. Content of strategies varies widely across all measurements based on base strategy and addition of concentrated sources of fibrinogen and other key clotting factors.

DISCUSSION

Differences observed between modeled transfusion strategies provide key insights into potential opportunities to provide patients with precision transfusion strategy.

Predictors of intraoperative massive transfusion in orthotopic liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Although transfusion management has improved during the last decade, orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) has been associated with considerable blood transfusion requirements which poses some challenges in securing blood bank inventories. Defining the predictors of massive blood transfusion before surgery will allow the blood bank to better manage patients' needs without delays. We evaluated the predictors of intraoperative massive transfusion in OLT.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Data were collected on patients who underwent OLT between 2007 and 2017. Repeat OLTs were excluded. Analyzed variables included recipients' demographic and pretransplant laboratory variables, donors' data, and intraoperative variables. Massive transfusion was defined as intraoperative transfusion of ≥10 units of packed red blood cells (RBCs). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 17.0.

RESULTS

The study included 970 OLT patients. The median age of patients was 57 (range: 16-74) years; 609 (62.7%) were male. RBCs, thawed plasma, and platelets were transfused intraoperatively to 782 (80.6%) patients, 831 (85.7%) patients, and 422 (43.5%) patients, respectively. Massive transfusion was documented in 119 (12.3%) patients. In multivariate analysis, previous right abdominal surgery, the recipient's hemoglobin, Model for End Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score, cold ischemia time, warm ischemia time, and operation time were predictive of massive transfusion. There was a direct significant correlation between the number of RBC units transfused and plasma (Pearson correlation coefficient r = .794) and platelets (r = .65).

DISCUSSION

Previous abdominal surgery, the recipient's hemoglobin, MELD score, cold ischemia time, warm ischemia time, and operation time were predictive of intraoperative massive transfusion in OLT.

Coagulation management during liver transplantation: monitoring and decision making for hemostatic interventions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Rebalanced hemostasis describes the precarious balance of procoagulant and antithrombotic proteins in patients with severe liver failure. This review is aimed to discuss currently available coagulation monitoring tests and pertinent decision-making process for plasma coagulation factor replacements during liver transplantation (LT).

RECENT FINDINGS

Contemporary viscoelastic coagulation monitoring systems have demonstrated advantages over conventional coagulation tests in assessing the patient's coagulation status and tailoring hemostatic interventions. There is increasing interest in the use of prothrombin complex and fibrinogen concentrates, but it remains to be proven if purified factor concentrates are more efficacious and safer than allogeneic hemostatic components. Furthermore, the decision to use antifibrinolytic therapy necessitates careful considerations given the risks of venous thromboembolism in severe liver failure.

SUMMARY

Perioperative hemostatic management and thromboprophylaxis for LT patients is likely to be more precise and patient-specific through a better understanding and monitoring of rebalanced coagulation. Further research is needed to refine the application of these tools and develop more standardized protocols for coagulation management in LT.

Role of intelligent/interactive qualitative and quantitative analysis-three-dimensional estimated model in donor-recipient size mismatch following deceased donor liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Donor-recipient size mismatch (DRSM) is considered a crucial factor for poor outcomes in liver transplantation (LT) because of complications, such as massive intraoperative blood loss (IBL) and early allograft dysfunction (EAD). Liver volumetry is performed routinely in living donor LT, but rarely in deceased donor LT (DDLT), which amplifies the adverse effects of DRSM in DDLT. Due to the various shortcomings of traditional manual liver volumetry and formula methods, a feasible model based on intelligent/interactive qualitative and quantitative analysis-three-dimensional (IQQA-3D) for estimating the degree of DRSM is needed.

AIM

To identify benefits of IQQA-3D liver volumetry in DDLT and establish an estimation model to guide perioperative management.

METHODS

We retrospectively determined the accuracy of IQQA-3D liver volumetry for standard total liver volume (TLV) (sTLV) and established an estimation TLV (eTLV) index (eTLVi) model. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn to detect the optimal cut-off values for predicting massive IBL and EAD in DDLT using donor sTLV to recipient sTLV (called sTLVi). The factors influencing the occurrence of massive IBL and EAD were explored through logistic regression analysis. Finally, the eTLVi model was compared with the sTLVi model through the ROC curve for verification.

RESULTS

A total of 133 patients were included in the analysis. The Changzheng formula was accurate for calculating donor sTLV (P = 0.083) but not for recipient sTLV (P = 0.036). Recipient eTLV calculated using IQQA-3D highly matched with recipient sTLV (P = 0.221). Alcoholic liver disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, and sTLVi > 1.24 were independent risk factors for massive IBL, and drug-induced liver failure was an independent protective factor for massive IBL. Male donor-female recipient combination, model for end-stage liver disease score, sTLVi ≤ 0.85, and sTLVi ≥ 1.32 were independent risk factors for EAD, and viral hepatitis was an independent protective factor for EAD. The overall survival of patients in the 0.85 < sTLVi < 1.32 group was better compared to the sTLVi ≤ 0.85 group and sTLVi ≥ 1.32 group (P < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the area under the curve of the sTLVi model and IQQA-3D eTLVi model in the detection of massive IBL and EAD (all P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

IQQA-3D eTLVi model has high accuracy in predicting massive IBL and EAD in DDLT. We should follow the guidance of the IQQA-3D eTLVi model in perioperative management.

New Developments and Challenges in Liver Transplantation

Liver disease is increasing in incidence and is the third most common cause of premature death in the United Kingdom and fourth in the United States. Liver disease accounts for 2 million deaths globally each year. Three-quarters of patients with liver disease are diagnosed at a late stage, with liver transplantation as the only definitive treatment. Thomas E. Starzl performed the first human liver transplant 60 years ago. It has since become an established treatment for end-stage liver disease, both acute and chronic, including metabolic diseases and primary and, at present piloting, secondary liver cancer. Advances in surgical and anaesthetic techniques, refined indications and contra-indications to transplantation, improved donor selection, immunosuppression and prognostic scoring have allowed the outcomes of liver transplantation to improve year on year. However, there are many limitations to liver transplantation. This review describes the milestones that have occurred in the development of liver transplantation, the current limitations and the ongoing research aimed at overcoming these challenges.

Intraoperative Renal Replacement Therapy in Orthotopic Liver Transplantation

Acute kidney injury in patients admitted to the hospital for liver transplantation is common, with up to 80% of pretransplant patients having some form of acute kidney injury. Many of these patients start on dialysis prior to their transplant and have it continued intraoperatively during their surgery. This review discusses the limited existing literature and expert opinion around the indications and outcomes around intraoperative dialysis (intraoperative renal replacement therapy) during liver transplantation. More specifically, we discuss which patients may benefit from intraoperative renal replacement therapy and the impact of hyponatremia and hyperammonemia on the dialysis prescription. Additionally, we discuss the complex interplay between anesthesia and intraoperative renal replacement therapy and how the need for clearance and ultrafiltration changes throughout the different phases of the transplant (preanhepatic, anhepatic, and postanhepatic). Lastly, this review will cover the limited data around patient outcomes following intraoperative renal replacement therapy during liver transplantation as well as the best evidence for when to stop dialysis.

Patient Blood Management in Liver Transplant—A Concise Review

Transfusion of blood products in orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) significantly increases post-transplant morbidity and mortality and is associated with reduced graft survival. Based on these results, an active effort to prevent and minimize blood transfusion is required. Patient blood management is a revolutionary approach defined as a patient-centered, systematic, evidence-based approach to improve patient outcomes by managing and preserving a patient’s own blood while promoting patient safety and empowerment. This approach is based on three pillars of treatment: (1) detecting and correcting anemia and thrombocytopenia, (2) minimizing iatrogenic blood loss, detecting, and correcting coagulopathy, and (3) harnessing and increasing anemia tolerance. This review emphasizes the importance of the three-pillar nine-field matrix of patient blood management to improve patient outcomes in liver transplant recipients.

Bile duct anastomosis does not promote bacterial contamination of autologous blood salvaged during living donor liver transplantation

Bile duct surgeries are conventionally considered to promote bacterial contamination of the surgical field. However, liver transplantation recipients' bile produced by the newly implanted liver graft from healthy living donors may be sterile. We tested bacterial contamination of autologous blood salvaged before and after bile duct anastomosis (BDA) during living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). In 29 patients undergoing LDLT, bacterial culture was performed for four blood samples and one bile sample: two from autologous blood salvaged before BDA (one was nonleukoreduced and another was leukoreduced), two from autologous blood salvaged after BDA (one was nonleukoreduced and another was leukoreduced), and one from bile produced in the newly implanted liver graft. The primary outcome was bacterial contamination. The risk of bacterial contamination was not significantly different between nonleukoreduced autologous blood salvaged before BDA and nonleukoreduced autologous blood salvaged after BDA (44.8% and 31.0%; odds ratio 0.33, 95% confidence interval 0.03-1.86; p = 0.228). No bacteria were found after leukoreduction in all 58 autologous blood samples. All bile samples were negative for bacteria. None of the 29 patients, including 13 patients who received salvaged autologous blood positive for bacteria, developed postoperative bacteremia. We found that bile from the newly implanted liver graft is sterile in LDLT and BDA does not increase the risk of bacterial contamination of salvaged blood, supporting the use of blood salvage during LDLT even after BDA. Leukoreduction converted all autologous blood samples positive for bacteria to negative. The clinical benefit of leukoreduction for salvaged autologous blood on post-LDLT bacteremia needs further research.

Clinical prognosis of intraoperative blood salvage autotransfusion in liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Intraoperative blood salvage autotransfusion(IBSA) has been widely used in a variety of surgeries, but the use of IBSA in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT) is controversial. Numerous studies have reported that IBSA used during LT for HCC is not associated with adverse oncologic outcomes. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to estimate the clinical prognosis of IBSA for patients with H+CC undergoing LT.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched for articles describing IBSA in HCC patients undergoing LT from the date of inception until May 1, 2022, and a meta-analysis was performed. Study heterogeneity was assessed by I² test. Publication bias was evaluated by funnel plots, Egger’s and Begg’s test.

Results

12 studies enrolling a total of 2253 cases (1374 IBSA and 879 non-IBSA cases) are included in this meta-analysis. The recurrence rate(RR) at 5-year(OR=0.75; 95%CI, 0.59-0.95; P=0.02) and 7-year(OR=0.65; 95%CI, 0.55-0.97; P=0.03) in the IBSA group is slightly lower than non-IBSA group. There are no significant differences in the 1-year RR(OR=0.77; 95% CI, 0.56-1.06; P=0.10), 3-years RR (OR=0.79; 95% CI, 0.62-1.01; P=0.06),1-year overall survival outcome(OS) (OR=0.90; 95% CI, 0.63-1.28; P=0.57), 3-year OS(OR=1.16; 95% CI, 0.83-1.62; P=0.38), 5-year OS(OR=1.04; 95% CI, 0.76-1.40; P=0.82),1-year disease-free survival rate(DFS) (OR=0.80; 95%CI, 0.49-1.30; P=0.36), 3-year DFS(OR=0.99; 95%CI, 0.64-1.55; P=0.98), and 5-year DFS(OR=0.88; 95%CI, 0.60-1.28; P=0.50). Subgroup analysis shows a difference in the use of leukocyte depletion filters group of 5-year RR(OR=0.73; 95%CI, 0.55-0.96; P=0.03). No significant differences are found in other subgroups.

Conclusions

IBSA provides comparable survival outcomes relative to allogeneic blood transfusion and does not increase the tumor recurrence for HCC patients after LT.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42022295479.

Living-Related Liver Retransplantation in a Child: When it Seems Impossible (A Clinical Case)

The objective: to show the possibility of anesthesia during liver retransplantation in a child in the absence of adequate vascular access.

A clinical case of liver retransplantation in a 10-year-old patient with liver transplant dysfunction and acquired thrombophilia is considered. In 2011, the child underwent Kasai portoenterostomy, and in 2012, living-related transplantation of the left lateral liver bisegment from a related donor was performed due to liver cirrhosis as an outcome of biliary atresia. Also, the child had multiple surgical interventions due to perforations of the small intestine with underlying segmental venous mesenteric thrombosis. In the long term after the transplantation, irreversible transplant dysfunction developed with manifestations and worsening of hepatocellular insufficiency, encephalopathy, as well as recurrent bleeding from varicose veins of the esophagus and cardiac orifice. The clinical situation was complicated by the lack of adequate vascular access due to total thrombosis of the venous system, thrombosis of the superior and inferior vena cava. The only possible option for ensuring adequate venous access was the implantation of a tunneled catheter into the right atrium of the right atrium for prolonged standing in conditions of single-lung ventilation through right-sided thoracotomy.  

Development of Machine Learning Models Predicting Estimated Blood Loss during Liver Transplant Surgery

The incidence of major hemorrhage and transfusion during liver transplantation has decreased significantly over the past decade, but major bleeding remains a common expectation. Massive intraoperative hemorrhage during liver transplantation can lead to mortality or reoperation. This study aimed to develop machine learning models for the prediction of massive hemorrhage and a scoring system which is applicable to new patients. Data were retrospectively collected from patients aged >18 years who had undergone liver transplantation. These data included emergency information, donor information, demographic data, preoperative laboratory data, the etiology of hepatic failure, the Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score, surgical history, antiplatelet therapy, continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), the preoperative dose of vasopressor, and the estimated blood loss (EBL) during surgery. The logistic regression model was one of the best-performing machine learning models. The most important factors for the prediction of massive hemorrhage were the disease etiology, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), operation duration, body temperature, MELD score, mean arterial pressure, serum creatinine, and pulse pressure. The risk-scoring system was developed using the odds ratios of these factors from the logistic model. The risk-scoring system showed good prediction performance and calibration (AUROC: 0.775, AUPR: 0.753).

Using novel PF4-dependent P-selectin expression assay to diagnose heparin-induced thrombocytopaenia postliver transplantation

Heparin-induced thrombocytopaenia (HIT) is a well-known adverse event associated with the use of heparin products. HIT may be difficult to diagnose in patients following liver transplantation as patients routinely require massive transfusion support and immunosuppression. As an alternative or adjunctive to the serotonin release assay, the PF4-dependent P-selectin expression assay (PEA) may be a useful diagnostic test in the determination of HIT in this patient population. In this case, we describe a 63-year-old man who had an orthotopic liver transplant that was complicated by HIT that was diagnosed using the PEA.

Hyponatremia and Liver Transplantation: A Narrative Review

Hyponatremia is a common electrolyte disorder in patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) and is associated with increased mortality on the liver transplantation (LT) waiting list. The impact of hyponatremia on outcomes after LT is unclear. Ninety-day and one-year mortality may be increased, but the data are conflicting. Hyponatremic patients have an increased rate of complications and longer hospital stays after transplant. Although rare, osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS) is a feared complication after LT in the hyponatremic patient. The condition may occur when the serum sodium (sNa) concentration increases excessively during or after LT. This increase in sNa concentration correlates with the degree of preoperative hyponatremia, the amount of intraoperative blood loss, and the volume of intravenous fluid administration. The risk of developing ODS after LT can be mitigated by avoiding large perioperative increases in sNa concentration . This can be achieved through measures such as carefully increasing the sNa pretransplant, and by limiting the intravenous intra- and postoperative amounts of sodium infused. SNa concentrations should be monitored regularly throughout the entire perioperative period.

Perioperative cangrelor in patients with recent percutaneous coronary intervention undergoing liver transplantation: A case series

BACKGROUND

Management of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in the perioperative setting is challenging, particularly in complex patient populations, such as those with underlying coagulopathy and/or recent percutaneous coronary interventions.

METHODS

In this case series, we describe the perioperative use of cangrelor bridge therapy in two patients undergoing liver transplantation after recent coronary drug-eluting stent placement.

OUTCOMES

In both patient cases, cangrelor use as a P2Y12 bridge at a dose of 0.75 μg/kg/min was safe and effective. Both patients were successfully switched back to their oral DAPT regimen post-operatively without additive bleeding or thrombotic complications.

CONCLUSION

The use of cangrelor as bridge therapy in high-risk perioperative liver transplant patients appears to be a viable option when DAPT is warranted.

Advancing Prediction of Risk of Intraoperative Massive Blood Transfusion in Liver Transplantation With Machine Learning Models. A Multicenter Retrospective Study

Background

Liver transplantation surgery is often accompanied by massive blood loss and massive transfusion (MT), while MT can cause many serious complications related to high mortality. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a model that can predict the demand for MT to reduce the waste of blood resources and improve the prognosis of patients.

Objective

To develop a model for predicting intraoperative massive blood transfusion in liver transplantation surgery based on machine learning algorithms.

Methods

A total of 1,239 patients who underwent liver transplantation surgery in three large grade lll-A general hospitals of China from March 2014 to November 2021 were included and analyzed. A total of 1193 cases were randomly divided into the training set (70%) and test set (30%), and 46 cases were prospectively collected as a validation set. The outcome of this study was an intraoperative massive blood transfusion. A total of 27 candidate risk factors were collected, and recursive feature elimination (RFE) was used to select key features based on the Categorical Boosting (CatBoost) model. A total of ten machine learning models were built, among which the three best performing models and the traditional logistic regression (LR) method were prospectively verified in the validation set. The Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUROC) was used for model performance evaluation. The Shapley additive explanation value was applied to explain the complex ensemble learning models.

Results

Fifteen key variables were screened out, including age, weight, hemoglobin, platelets, white blood cells count, activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, thrombin time, direct bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, total protein, albumin, globulin, creatinine, urea. Among all algorithms, the predictive performance of the CatBoost model (AUROC: 0.810) was the best. In the prospective validation cohort, LR performed far less well than other algorithms.

Conclusion

A prediction model for massive blood transfusion in liver transplantation surgery was successfully established based on the CatBoost algorithm, and a certain degree of generalization verification is carried out in the validation set. The model may be superior to the traditional LR model and other algorithms, and it can more accurately predict the risk of massive blood transfusions and guide clinical decision-making.

Application of various surgical techniques in liver transplantation: a retrospective study

Background

Surgical techniques of liver transplantation have continually evolved and have been modified. We retrospectively analyzed a single-center case series and compared the advantages and disadvantages of each method.

Methods

Six-hundred and seventy-four recipients’ perioperative data were assessed and analyzed stratified by different surgical technics [modified classic (MC), modified piggyback (MPB) and classic piggyback (CPB)].

Results

MELD score and Child-Pugh scores was significantly higher in CPB groups (P=0.008 and 0.003, respectively). Anhepatic time in MPB group was longer than those in CPB group (P<0.05). The operation duration in MPB group was significantly longer than those in MC group and CPB group (P=0.003). Three patients had outflow obstruction (P=0.035). The overall survival in MPB group were better than those in MC group and CPB group in general comparison (P<0.001). In patients with preoperative creatine >120 µmol/L, the overall survival in MC group was worst (P<0.001). In patients with a high MELD score (>24), the overall survival in MPB group tended to be the best (P<0.001).

Conclusions

The advantages and disadvantages are different for these three surgical techniques. A reasonable operation technique should be adopted considering the patient's unique condition to ensure the stability of hemodynamics.

Presence of tumor cells in intra-operative blood salvage autotransfusion samples from hepatocellular carcinoma liver transplantation: analysis using highly sensitive microfluidics technology

BACKGROUND

The application of intra-operative blood salvage autotransfusion(IBSA) in liver transplantation(LT) for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) remains controversial due to the theoretical risk of tumour cell(TC) reintroduction. Current studies evaluating for presence of TC are limited by suboptimal detection techniques. This study aims to analyze the presence of TC in HCC LT autologous blood using microfluidics technology.

METHODS

A prospective study of HCC patients who underwent LT from February 2018-April 2019 was conducted. Blood samples were collected peri-operatively. TCs were isolated using microfluidics technology and stained with antibody cocktails for confirmation.

RESULTS

A total of 15 HCC LT patients were recruited. All recipients had tumour characteristics within the University of California, San Francisco(UCSF) criteria pre-operatively. TC was detected in all of the autologous blood samples collected from the surgical field. After IOCS wash, five patients had no detectable TC, while 10 patients had detectable TC; of these two remained positive for TC after Leukocyte Depletion Filter(LDF) filtration.

CONCLUSION

The risk of tumour cell reintroduction using IBSA in HCC LT patients can be reduced with a single LDF. Future studies should evaluate the proliferation capacity and tumorigenicity of HCC TC in IBSA samples, and the effects of TC reintroduction in patients with pre-existing HCC TCs.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation following air embolism during orthotropic liver transplantation: is this just a coincidence?

BACKGROUND

During orthotopic liver transplantation, venous air embolism may occur due to iatrogenic injury of the inferior vena cava. However, venous air embolism followed by coagulopathy is a rare event. In this case report, we discuss a possible connection between venous air embolism and disseminated intravascular coagulation.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 37-year-old male patient with chronic hepatitis B- and C-induced liver cirrhosis was admitted for orthotopic liver transplantation. During the dissection phase of the surgery, arterial blood pressure, heart rate, saturation and end-tidal carbon dioxide levels suddenly decreased, indicating the occurrence of venous air embolism. After stabilizing the patient's condition, various coagulation issues started developing. Venous air embolism-induced coagulopathy was handled by administering transfusions of various blood products. However, the patient's condition continued to deteriorate leading to a complete asystole.

CONCLUSIONS

This is a rare case of venous air embolism-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation. The real connection remains unclear as disseminated intravascular coagulation for end-stage liver disease patients can be induced by various causes during different stages of liver transplantation. Certainly, both venous air embolism and coagulopathy were significant and led to an unfavorable outcome. Further studies are needed to better understand the possible mechanisms and correlation between these two life-threatening complications.

Validation of McCluskey Index for Massive Blood Transfusion Prediction in Liver Transplantation

BACKGROUND

The McCluskey index has been used as a tool to predict massive bleeding (>6 red blood cells units) during orthotropic liver transplantation. The objective of this study is to verify its efficacy at our institution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between May 1998 and December 2017, we performed 1216 orthotropic liver transplantations, of which 1016 had sufficient data registered with respect to hemoderivative transfusion. We divided these patients into groups based on the original study of McCluskey. This study was approved by the ethical committee of our Institution and was performed in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki.

RESULTS

The mean Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score in the 4 groups was 7.5 (range, 7-8) for low risk; 13 (range, 3-32) for medium risk, 17 (range, 8-41) for high risk, and 25 (range, 11-36) for very high risk (P < .001). No significant differences were observed regarding body mass index or hospital stay. No differences have been found in the number of suboptimal donors among the groups. With respect to hemoderivative transfusions, we observed the following for red blood cells: 7 (range, 6-8) units for low risk; 5.5 (range, 0-74) for medium risk; 7 (range, 0-73) for high risk, and 12 (range, 5-30) for very high risk (P < .001) and transfusion of plasma: 12 (range, 10-15) units for low risk; 11 (range, 0-89) for medium risk; 14 (range, 0-76) for high risk, and 13 (range, 3-30) for very high risk (P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The McCluskey index is a good indicator of the risk of hemorrhage and hence the necessity of transfusion.

Hemodynamic Instability During Liver Transplantation in Patients With End-stage Liver Disease: A Consensus Document from ILTS, LICAGE, and SATA

Hemodynamic instability (HDI) during liver transplantation (LT) can be difficult to manage and increases postoperative morbidity and mortality. In addition to surgical causes of HDI, patient- and graft-related factors are also important. Nitric oxide-mediated vasodilatation is a common denominator associated with end-stage liver disease related to HDI. Despite intense investigation, optimal management strategies remain elusive. In this consensus article, experts from the International Liver Transplantation Society, the Liver Intensive Care Group of Europe, and the Society for the Advancement of Transplant Anesthesia performed a rigorous review of the most current literature regarding the epidemiology, causes, and management of HDI during LT. Special attention has been paid to unique LT-associated conditions including the causes and management of vasoplegic syndrome, cardiomyopathies, LT-related arrhythmias, right and left ventricular dysfunction, and the specifics of medical and fluid management in end-stage liver disease as well as problems specifically related to portal circulation. When possible, management recommendations are made.

LigaSure versus monopolar cautery for recipient hepatectomy in liver transplantation: a propensity score-matched analysis

Background

Recipient hepatectomy during liver transplantation (LT) is one of the most challenging aspects of surgery due to the possibility of massive bleeding. This study aimed to compare and analyze the effectiveness between LigaSure and monopolar cautery in recipients.

Methods

We reviewed 187 recipients who underwent LT from March 2019 to June 2020. We compared the surgical outcomes of the 69 recipients who underwent recipient hepatectomy with LigaSure (LigaSure group) and 118 recipients who underwent with monopolar cautery. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed using the nearest-neighbor method at a ratio of 1:1 based on 14 baseline characteristics and possible factors that influence postoperative bleeding.

Results

A total of 187 adult recipients were reviewed retrospectively. In the propensity score-matched analysis, The rates of bleeding and infectious complication were significantly lower in the LigaSure group than in the monopolar cautery group (3/69, 4.35% versus 13/69, 18.8%; P=0.015 and 1/69, 1.45% versus 9/69, 13.0%; P=0.017). The length of postoperative hospital stay was shorter in the LigaSure group (mean: 23.1±16.1 versus 39.6±58.2 days; P=0.024).

Conclusions

Recipient hepatectomy with LigaSure is associated with a short hospital stay due to low re-operation rates, postoperative bleeding, and secondary infection related to bleeding.

The Association between Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) and Intraoperative Transfusion in Patients Undergoing Hepatectomy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

PNI is significantly associated with surgical outcomes; however, the association between PNI and intraoperative transfusions is unknown.

METHODS

This study retrospectively analyzed 1065 patients who underwent hepatectomy. We divided patients into two groups according to the PNI (<44 and >44) and compared their transfusion rates and surgical outcomes. We performed multivariate logistic and Cox regression analysis to determine risk factors for transfusion and the 5-year survival. Additionally, we found the net reclassification index (NRI) to validate the discriminatory power of PNI.

RESULTS

The PNI <44 group had higher transfusion rates (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 2.20, 95%CI: 1.06-4.60, p = 0.035) and poor surgical outcomes, such as post hepatectomy liver failure (adjusted [OR]: 3.02, 95%CI: 1.87-4.87, p < 0.001), and low 5-year survival (adjusted OR: 1.68, 95%CI: 1.17-2.24, p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, PNI <44, age, hemoglobin, operation time, synthetic colloid use, and laparoscopic surgery were risk factors for intraoperative transfusion. On Cox regression analysis, PNI <44, MELD score, TNM staging, synthetic colloid use, and transfusion were associated with poorer 5-year survival. NRI analysis showed significant improvement in the predictive power of PNI for transfusion (p = 0.002) and 5-year survival (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative PNI <44 was significantly associated with higher transfusion rates and surgical outcomes.

Cell Salvage During Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Retrospective Analysis of Tumor Recurrence Following Irradiation of the Salvaged Blood

BACKGROUND

Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is the treatment option for early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). OLT is often associated with high blood loss, requiring blood transfusion. Retransfusion of autologous blood is a key part of blood conservation. There are, however, concerns that the retransfusion of salvaged blood might cause the spread of cancer cells and induce metastasis. Irradiation of salvaged blood before retransfusion eliminates viable cancer cells. Here, we analyzed the incidence of tumor recurrence in patients with HCC undergoing OLT who received irradiated cell-salvaged blood during transplant surgery.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed patients undergoing OLT for HCC between 2002 and 2018 at our center. We compared the tumour recurrence in patients who received no retransfusion of autologous blood with patients who received autologous blood with or without preceding irradiation of the blood.

RESULTS

Fifty-one (40 male, 11 female) patients were included in the analysis; 10 patients developed tumor recurrence within a time period of 2.45 ± 2.0 years. Statistical analysis revealed that there was no significant difference in tumor recurrence between patients who received autologous blood with or without irradiation.

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative transfusion of cell-salvaged blood did not increase tumor recurrence rates. Cell salvage should be used in liver transplantation of HCC patients as part of a blood conservation strategy. The effect of blood irradiation on tumor recurrence could not be definitively evaluated.

Successful Management of a Patient with Intraoperative Bleeding of More than 80,000 mL and Usefulness of QTc Monitoring for Calcium Correction

Intraoperative massive bleeding is associated with high rates of mortality and anesthetic management of massive bleeding is challenging because it is necessary to achieve volume resuscitation and electrolyte correction simultaneously during massive transfusion. We report a case of life-threatening bleeding of more than 80,000 mL during liver transplantation in which real-time QTc monitoring was useful for an extremely large amount of calcium administration for treatment of hypocalcemia. A 47-year-old female with a giant liver due to polycystic liver disease was scheduled to undergo liver transplantation. During surgery, life-threatening massive bleeding occurred. The maximum rate of blood loss was approximately 15,000 mL/hr and the total amount of estimated blood loss was 81,600 mL. It was extremely difficult to maintain blood pressure and a risk of cardiac arrest continued due to hypotension. In addition, even though administration of insulin and calcium was performed, electrolyte disturbances of hyperkalemia and hypocalcemia with prolongation of QTc interval occurred. At that time, we visually noticed that the QT interval was shortened in response to bolus calcium administration, and we used the change of real-time QTc interval as a supportive indicator for calcium correction. This monitoring allowed for us to administer calcium at an unusually high rate, by which progression of hypocalcemia was prevented. Levels of hemoglobin and coagulation factors were preserved both by restriction of crystalloid infusion and by a massive transfusion protocol. The patient was extubated without pulmonary edema or cardiac overload and was finally discharged without any sequelae. Intensive and cooperative management for massive transfusion and electrolyte correction using QTc monitoring was considered to be a key for successful management.

Safety and efficacy of an integrated endovascular treatment strategy for early hepatic artery occlusion after liver transplantation

BACKGROUND

Hepatic artery occlusion (HAO) after liver transplantation (LT) is typically comprised of hepatic artery thrombosis (HAT) and stenosis (HAS), both of which are severe complications that coexist and interdependent. This study aimed to evaluate an integrated endovascular treatment (EVT) strategy for the resolution of early HAO and identify the risk factors associated with early HAO as well as the procedural challenge encountered in the treatment strategy.

METHODS

Consecutive orthotopic LT recipients (n = 366) who underwent transplantation between June 2017 and December 2018 were retrospectively investigated. EVT was performed using an integrated strategy that involved thrombolytic therapy, shunt artery embolization plus vasodilator therapy, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, and/or stent placement. Simple EVT was defined as the clinical resolution of HAO by one round of EVT with thrombolytic therapy and/or shunt artery embolization plus vasodilator therapy. Otherwise, it was defined as complex EVT.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients (median age 52 years) underwent EVT for early HAO that occurred within 30 days post-LT. The median interval from LT to EVT was 7 (6-16) days. Revascularization time (OR = 1.027; 95% CI: 1.005-1.050; P = 0.018) and the need for conduit (OR = 3.558; 95% CI: 1.241-10.203, P = 0.018) were independent predictors for early HAO. HAT was diagnosed in eight patients, and four out of those presented with concomitant HAS. We achieved 100% technical success and recanalization by performing simple EVT in 19 patients (3 HAT+/HAS- and 16 HAT-/HAS+) and by performing complex EVT in seven patients (1 HAT+/HAS-, 4 HAT+/HAS+, and 2 HAT-/HAS+), without major complications. The primary assisted patency rates at 1, 6, and 12 months were all 100%. The cumulative overall survival rates at 1, 6, and 12 months were 88.5%, 88.5%, and 80.8%, respectively. Autologous transfusion < 600 mL (94.74% vs. 42.86%, P = 0.010) and interrupted suture for hepatic artery anastomosis (78.95% vs. 14.29%, P = 0.005) were more prevalent in simple EVT.

CONCLUSIONS

The integrated EVT strategy was a feasible approach providing effective resolution with excellent safety for early HAO after LT. Appropriate autologous transfusion and interrupted suture technique helped simplify EVT.

Transfusion Status in Liver and Kidney Transplantation Recipients-Results from Nationwide Claims Database

BACKGROUND

This study analyzed the status and trends of transfusion and its associated factors among liver and kidney transplantation recipients.

METHODS

A total of 10,858 and 16,191 naïve liver or kidney transplantation recipients from 2008 to 2017 were identified through the National Health Insurance Service database. The prescription code for transfusion and the presence, number, and amount of each type of transfusion were noted. The odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were determined to identify significant differences in transfusion and blood components by liver and kidney transplantation recipient characteristics.

RESULTS

In this study, 96.4% of liver recipients and 59.7% of kidney recipients received transfusions related to the transplantation operation, mostly platelet and fresh frozen plasma. Higher perioperative transfusion in women and declining transfusion rates from 2008 to 2017 were observed in both liver and kidney recipients. In liver recipients, the transfusion rate in those who received organs from deceased donors was much higher than that in those who received organs from living donors; however, the mortality rate according to transfusion was higher only in recipients of deceased donor organs. In kidney recipients, a higher mortality rate was observed in those receiving transfusion than that in patients without transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

In Korea, the transfusion rates in liver and kidney recipients were relatively higher than those in other countries. Sociodemographic factors, especially sex and year of transplantation, were associated with transfusion in solid organ recipients, possibly as surrogates for other causal clinical factors.

A nomogram for prediction of early allograft dysfunction in living donor liver transplantation

Liver transplantation is the treatment of choice for end-stage liver diseases. However, early allograft dysfunction (EAD) is frequently encountered and associated with graft loss or mortality after transplantation. This study aimed to establish a predictive model of EAD after living donor liver transplantation. A total of 77 liver transplants were recruited to the study. Multivariate analysis was utilized to identify significant risk factors for EAD. A nomogram was constructed according to the contributions of the risk factors. The predictive values were determined by discrimination and calibration methods. A cohort of 30 patients was recruited to validate this predictive model. Four independent risk factors, including donor age, intraoperative blood loss, preoperative alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and reperfusion total bilirubin, were identified and used to build the nomogram. The c-statistics of the primary cohort and the validation group were 0.846 and 0.767, respectively. The calibration curves for the probability of EAD presented an acceptable agreement between the prediction by the nomogram and the actual incidence. In conclusion, the study developed a new nomogram for predicting the risk of EAD following living donor liver transplantation. This model may help clinicians to determine individual risk of EAD following living donor liver transplantation.

Factors Associated with Prolonged Recipient Hepatectomy Time During Liver Transplantation: A Single-Centre Experience

BACKGROUND

Recipient hepatectomy during liver transplantation can be a challenging operation and can increase cold ischaemic time. The aim of this study is to assess factors associated with prolonged recipient hepatectomy.

METHODS

From 2005 to 2015, 930 patients were submitted to liver transplantation in our hospital. Prolonged hepatectomy time was defined as operative time >180 min (from knife on skin to total hepatectomy). Patients undergoing early liver retransplantation and living donation were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 715 patients were included in our study. Median age at transplantation was 53 (18-70) years, and median BMI was 26.2 (16-40). Median hepatectomy time was 131 min. Prolonged hepatectomy time occurred in 89 (12.4%) patients. At univariate analysis, previous decompensated cirrhosis with variceal bleeding and/or ascites, higher BMI and previous abdominal surgery were associated with prolonged operating time. Higher surgeon experience and acute liver failure were associated with shorter hepatectomy time. At multivariate analysis, previous episodes of variceal bleeding (p = 0.027, OR 1.78), BMI > 27 (p = 0.01, OR 1.75), previous abdominal surgery (p = 0.04, OR 1.68) and surgeon experience (p = 0.007, OR 2.04) were independently associated with operating time. Prolonged hepatectomy time was significantly associated with cold and total ischaemic time and intraoperative bleeding (p < 0.001, p = 0.002 and p = 0.002, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Recipient BMI, previous episodes of variceal bleeding, previous abdominal surgery and surgeon experience are independently associated with hepatectomy duration. These factors can be helpful to identify those patients with potentially prolonged hepatectomy time, and therefore, strategies can be put in place to optimize outcomes in this group of patients.

Liver transplantation in patients with portal vein thrombosis: A strategic road map throughout management

BACKGROUND

Liver transplantation in the setting of portal vein thrombosis is an intricate issue that occasionally necessitates extraordinary procedures for portal flow restoration. However, to date, there is no consensus on a persistent management strategy, particularly with extensive forms. This work aims to introduce our experience-based surgical management algorithm for portal vein thrombosis during liver transplantation and to clarify some of the debatable circumstances associated with this problematic issue.

METHODS

Between 2006 and 2019, 494 adults underwent liver transplantation at our institute. Ninety patients had preoperative portal vein thrombosis, and 79 patients underwent living donor liver transplantation. Our algorithm trichotomized the management plan into 3 pathways based on portal vein thrombosis grade. The surgical procedures implemented included thrombectomy, interposition vein grafts, jump grafts from the superior mesenteric vein, jump grafts from a collateral and renoportal anastomosis in 56, 13, 11, 4, and 2 patients, respectively. Four patients with mural thrombi did not require any special intervention.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients experienced posttransplant portal vein complications. They all proved to have a patent portal vein by the end of follow-up regardless of the management modality. No significant survival difference was observed between cohorts with versus without portal vein thrombosis. The early graft loss rate was significantly higher with advanced grades (P = .048) as well as technically demanding procedures (P = .032).

CONCLUSION

A stepwise broad-minded strategy should always be adopted when approaching advanced portal vein thrombosis during liver transplantation. An industrious preoperative evaluation should always be carried out to locate the ideal reliable source for portal flow restoration.

Fibrinogen Diagnostics in Major Hemorrhage

Fibrinogen is one of the first factors to fall to critically low levels in the blood in many coagulopathic events. Patients with hypofibrinogenemia are at a significantly greater risk of major hemorrhage and death. The rapid replacement of fibrinogen early on in hypofibrinogenemia may significantly improve outcomes for patients. Fibrinogen is present at concentrations between 2 and 4 g/L in the plasma of healthy people. However, hypofibrinogenemia is diagnosed when the fibrinogen level drops below 1.5-2 g/L. This review analyses different types of fibrinogen assays that can be used for diagnosing hypofibrinogenemia. The scientific mechanisms and limitations behind these tests are then presented. Additionally, the current state of clinical major hemorrhage protocols (MHPs) is presented and the structure, function and physiological role of fibrinogen is summarized.

Splanchnic and systemic circulation cross talks: Implications for hemodynamic management of liver transplant recipients

The interaction between splanchnic and systemic circulation has many hemodynamic and renal consequences during liver transplant. In a patient with liver cirrhosis, splanchnic vasodilatation causes arterial steal from the systemic circulation into the splanchnic bed, which decreases the effective blood volume. Moreover, rapid volume loading in these patients has less impact on the cardiac output because a higher proportion of infused fluid is shifted to the splanchnic area. Thus, in dissection phase, the traditional approach of volume loading to maintain intraoperative hemodynamic stability not only seems ineffective, but it may also aggravate surgical bleeding. Two approaches of volume therapy have been mentioned to maintain hemodynamic stability during liver transplantation: splanchnic volume reduction by volume restriction with or without phlebotomy to maintain low central venous pressure (CVP), and splanchnic decongestion using splanchnic vasoconstrictors. After reperfusion, an increase in the central blood volume was thought to have a deleterious effect on the new graft function; however, the precise central venous pressure value that causes hepatic congestion after reperfusion is unknown.

Liver transplantation in Jehovah's witnesses: 13 consecutive cases at a single institution

Background

Jehovah’s Witnesses represent a tremendous clinical challenge when indicated to liver transplantation because they refuse blood transfusion on religious grounds and the procedure is historically associated with potential massive peri-operative blood loss. We herein describe a peri-operative management pathway with strategies toward a transfusion-free environment with the aim not only of offering liver transplant to selected Jehovah’s Witnesses patients but also, ultimately, of translating this practice to all general surgical procedures.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of prospective medical records of JW patients who underwent LT at our Institution. The peri-operative multimodal strategy to liver transplantation in Jehovah’s Witnesses includes a pre-operative red cell mass optimization package and the intra-operative use of normovolemic haemodilution, veno-venous bypass and low central venous pressure.

Results

In a 9-year period, 13 Jehovah’s Witness patients received liver transplantation at our centre representing the largest liver transplant program from deceased donors in Jehovah’s Witnesses patients reported so far. No patient received blood bank products but 3 had fibrinogen concentrate and one tranexamic acid to correct ongoing hyper-fibrinolysis. There were 4 cases of acute kidney injury (one required extracorporeal renal replacement treatment) and one patient needed vasoactive medications to support blood pressure for the first 2 postoperative days. Two patients underwent re-laparotomy. Finally, of the 13 recipients, 12 were alive at the 1 year follow-up interview and 1 died due to septic complications.

Conclusions

Our experience confirms that liver transplantation in selected Jehovah’s Witnesses patients can be feasible and safe provided that it is carried out at a very experienced centre and according to a multidisciplinary approach.

The role of multiphase CT in patients with acute postoperative bleeding after liver transplantation

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of multiphase computed tomography (CT) in patients with acute postoperative bleeding after liver transplantation(LT).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed multiphase CT images in 270 post-LT bleeding patients between November 2013 and December 2017, with special attention to contrast extravasation (type I, focal or stipple; type II, jet). Patients were classified into conservative management trial and primary therapeutic intervention groups by initial treatment strategy, and then conservative management trial group was subdivided into successful conservative management and conservative management failure groups. On multiphase CT, we evaluated contrast extravasation volume, rate, and patterns (focal or stipple vs. jet). The concordances of the bleeding source determined by multiphase CT to the actual bleeding source were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 270 patients, 134 contrast extravasation sites were identified in 116 (43.0%) patients. Most (94.8%, 146/154) of patients without contrast extravasation was successfully managed by conservative management. The mean volume and rate of contrast extravasation significantly increased in order of successful conservative management, conservative management failure, and primary therapeutic intervention groups (all p < 0.01). In subgroup analysis, jet pattern contrast extravasation was more commonly observed with conservative management failure group (p = 0.01). In addition, the change in pattern of contrast extravasation from type I to II was significantly related to the conservative management failure (OR 10.3; 95% CI 1.8-60.4; p = 0.01). There was substantial agreement in localization of bleeding source between multiphase CT and surgery or angiography (Cohen Kappa = 0.78).

CONCLUSION

Multiphase CT is helpful in the assessment for need of therapeutic intervention and to determine the treatment of choice in recipient with post-LT bleeding.

Liver Transplantation

The field of liver transplantation has changed since the MELD scoring system became the most widely used donor allocation tool. Due to the MELD-based allocation system, sicker patients with higher MELD scores are being transplanted. Persistent organ donor shortages remain a challenging issue, and as a result, the wait-list mortality is a persistent problem for most of the regions. This chapter focuses on deceased donor and live donor liver transplantation in patients with complications of portal hypertension. Special attention will also be placed on donor-recipient matching, perioperative management of transplant patients, and the impact of hepatic hemodynamics on transplantation.

Rapid, hand-held paper diagnostic for measuring Fibrinogen Concentration in blood

Critical bleeding causes over 2 million deaths a year. Early hypofibrinogenemia is a strong predictor of mortality in critically bleeding patients. The early replenishment of fibrinogen can significantly improve outcomes. However, over replenishment can also be dangerous. Furthermore, there is no rapid, cheap, hand-held diagnostic that can aid critically bleeding patients in fibrinogen replacement therapy. In this study, we have developed a hand-held paper diagnostic that measures plasma fibrinogen concentrations. The diagnostic has the potential to be used as a point of care device both inside and outside of hospital settings. It can vastly reduce the time to treatment for fibrinogen replacement therapy. The diagnostic is a two-step process. First, thrombin and plasma are added onto horizontially-orientated paper strips where the fibrinogen is converted into fibrin, drastically increasing the plasma's hydrophobicity. Second, an aqueous blue dye is pipetted onto the strips and allowed to wick through the fibrin. The distance the blue dye wicks through the strip correlates precisely to the fibrinogen concentration. The diagnostic can provide results within a minute. It can distinguish low fibrinogen concentrations (ie. <2 g/L) from normal fibrinogen concentrations. It shows remarkable reproducibility between healthy individuals. It is unaffected by common blood conditions such as acidosis, blood alcohol, severe hypertriglyceridemia, severe haemolysis and warfarin administration. Finally, it is unaffected by humidity and can withstand cold temperatures.

Intraoperative blood loss and transfusion during primary pediatric liver transplantation: A single-center experience

Children undergoing liver transplantation are at a significant risk for intraoperative hemorrhage and thrombotic complications, we aim to identify novel risk factors for massive intraoperative blood loss and transfusion in PLT recipients and describe its impact on graft survival and hospital LOS. We reviewed all primary PLTs performed at our institution between September 2007 and September 2016. Data are presented as n (%) or median (interquartile range). EBL was standardized by weight. Massive EBL and MT were defined as greater than the 85th percentile of the cohort. 250 transplantations were performed during the study period. 38 (15%) recipients had massive EBL, and LOS was 31.5 (15-58) days compared to 11 (7-21) days among those without massive EBL (P < 0.001). MT median LOS was 34 (14-59) days compared to 11 (7-21) days among those without MT (P = 0.001). Upon backward stepwise regression, technical variant graft, operative time, and transfusion of FFP, platelet, and/or cryoprecipitate were significant independent risk factors for massive EBL and MT, while admission from home was a protective factor. Recipient weight was a significant independent risk factor for MT alone. Massive EBL and MT were not statistically significant for overall graft survival. MT was, however, a significant risk factor for 30-day graft loss. PLT recipients with massive EBL or MT had significantly longer LOS and increased 30-day graft loss in patients who required MT. We identified longer operative time and technical variant graft were significant independent risk factors for massive EBL and MT, while being admitted from home was a protective factor.