[Orthotopic liver transplantation in man from the anaesthesiological point of view (author's transl)]

Abstract

We report our experience of anaesthesia for orthotopic liver transplantation in seven patients. Pre-, intra- and postoperative management requires highly cooperative team-work. Advantages of neuroleptanalgesia are pointed out for this operative procedure. Intraoperative problems such as mass transfusion, clotting disturbances, changes in haemodynamic parameters, metabolic acidosis, hypovolaemia, hypoglycaemia and hypothermia are discussed and adequate therapeutic measures proposed. The value of an extensive perioperative monitoring is demonstrated. Controlled ventilation has been performed during the immediate postoperative period in all patients.