Current approach to intraoperative monitoring in liver transplantation

Although liver transplantation has become a standardized treatment and the only established definite therapy for end-stage liver disease it remains a unique clinical procedure. Increased understanding of the specific pathophysiological changes in end-stage liver disease and the transplantation procedure have led to the adaptation of concepts including overall monitoring of the patient and assessment of specific organ function.

Major emphasis is placed on adequate monitoring during perioperative care of liver transplantation patients in order to ensure optimal hemodynamic and respiratory performance. The immediate assessment of metabolism and graft function will also serve to guide therapy according to the individual patient's needs.

The evolution of monitoring during standardized liver transplantation, as well as currently recommended novel devices and concepts, are described and discussed.