A Comprehensive Review of Transesophageal Echocardiography During Orthotopic Liver Transplantation

Abstract

Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is characterized by significant hemodynamic disturbances and anesthetic challenges. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) can be used to guide management during these procedures. This review examines the role of echocardiography during OLT, presents common TEE findings during each phase of OLT, and discusses the benefits demonstrated with TEE use and the safety of TEE in this patient population. Finally, the authors propose an algorithm for the safe use of TEE during OLT.

Keywords: echocardiography; intracardiac thrombus; intraprocedural transesophageal echocardiography guidance; orthotopic liver transplantation; transesophageal echocardiography; transesophageal echocardiography certification; transesophageal echocardiography monitoring; transplantation anesthesiology.