Liver transplantation: post-transplant management

Abstract

Medical care for patients following liver transplantation is complex and requires a holistic approach to management. Patients and clinicians are faced with multiple challenges: immunosuppressive regimens must be optimized to avoid and treat graft rejection, the risk and atypical features of sepsis in the immunocompromised patient must be recognized, steps are required to reduce the recurrence of liver disease and the long-term increased risks of malignancy, renal failure and metabolic complications need managing. Despite the benefits of liver transplantation there are additional concerns regarding the impact upon quality of life. This review will focus upon the care of patients following liver transplantation. As these patients will present to a broad range of clinicians, an understanding of the common drugs used post-transplantation and general approach to management of these patients will be of benefit to the general clinical audience.