Intraoperative dialysis with the use of a mobile dialysis system during liver transplantation

Purpose: Over the last few years, transplant centers have started to use various intraoperative renal replacement therapy (ioRRT) modalities during liver transplantation (LT) in patients with pre-existing renal impairment. Here, we present a study on the safety and clinical outcomes of intraoperative hemodialysis (ioHD) performed using a mobile dialysis system during LT. Patients and methods: We retrospectively analyzed 102 adult patients undergoing LT with ioHD; pre-existing renal failure and/or intraoperative metabolic derangement were ioHD treatment indications. Results: Our study cohort consisted of three groups: LT with preoperative serum creatinine (sCr) < 2 mg/dL (Group 1:n = 22), LT with preoperative sCr >2 mg/dL (Group 2:n = 73), and simultaneous liver-kidney transplantation (Group 3:n = 7). Among the procedures, 30% were re-transplantations. The mean calculated Model for End-stage Liver Disease score in Group 2 was 39.2, and 67% of patients were hospitalized in the intensive care unit. Patients in Group 1 were less acutely ill but developed severe intraoperative derangements and, therefore, underwent urgent ioHD intraoperatively. However, it was delayed when compared to Group 2. All groups achieved post-reperfusion potassium levels <4 mmol/L and a decrease in central venous pressure. No serious procedural complications occurred. Post-reperfusion syndrome occurred in 12.7% of patients. Elevated mortality was likely due to the high illness severity in the cohort. Conclusions: Performing ioHD with a mobile dialysis system during LT was safe and effective, while being easier to perform than continuous techniques. Its effect on intra-and postoperative outcomes should be addressed in a study with a control group.