Hypothermia With Prominent Electrocardiographic Changes Following Liver Transplantation

Hypothermia can complicate recovery of postoperative patients in the intensive care unit. Cardiovascular manifestations may be an early finding in these cases. We report about a middle-aged patient of orthotopic liver transplantation who developed moderate hypothermia postoperatively. Hemodynamic alterations and electrocardiographic changes resolved with accomplishment of euthermia. Etiologies of postoperative hypothermia must be considered to prevent this complication, which is associated with morbidity and prolongation of hospital stay.

Hypothermia is a differential diagnosis during new-onset electrocardiographic changes in post-liver transplant patients. Electrocardiographic features of hypothermia may occur early before hemodynamic deterioration. During continuous renal replacement therapy, temperature monitoring and active warming of dialysis fluid are key measures to avoid hypothermia.