Hepatopulmonary syndrome: use of extracorporeal life support for life-threatening hypoxia following liver transplantation

Liver Transpl. 2008 Jul;14(7):966-70. doi: 10.1002/lt.21477.

Abstract

Hepatopulmonary syndrome is an uncommon complication of nonacute liver failure, and in rare cases, hypoxia may be the presenting sign of liver dysfunction. The condition, once thought to be a contraindication, is improved in most cases by transplantation. There is a significant risk of postoperative, hypoxia-related morbidity and mortality in patients with hepatopulmonary syndrome. We present a case of life-threatening hypoxia following liver transplantation for liver failure and associated hepatopulmonary syndrome, with successful management using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation*
  • Hepatopulmonary Syndrome / surgery
  • Hepatopulmonary Syndrome / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Hypoxia / etiology*
  • Hypoxia / therapy
  • Liver Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Male