Coagulopathy during liver transplantation

Abstract

In this review article, we aimed to mainly review the principles for the management of hemostasis, changes that occur in the hemostatic system, and the techniques to reduce hemorrhage during liver transplantation. Hemostasis is a defense mechanism that may ensue from vascular damage and hemorrhage and consists of multiple phases which involve cellular and humoral elements of coagulation. In the presence of a cause, such as trauma-induced liver injury or hepatic failure that may trigger coagulopathy, the process becomes more problematic, and moreover, severe coagulation disorders may arise in daily practice unless the situation is intervened correctly and on time. During liver transplantation, the implementation of transfusion and coagulation management algorithms based on the point of care tests may reduce blood loss and transfusion requirement. Moreover, antifibrinolytic therapy and a low central venous pressure with restrictive fluid administration reduce bleeding.