Author information

1Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA dellavolpejd@upmc.edu. 2Department of Pharmacy & Therapeutics, Transplant Intensive Care Unit, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. 3Department of Critical Care Medicine, Director Multidisciplinary Acute Care Research Organization, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.

Abstract

The management of critically ill patients with end-stage liver disease can be challenging due to the vulnerability of this population and the wide-ranging complications of the disease. This review proposes an approach based on the major organ systems affected, to provide a framework for managing the most common complications. Although considerable practice variation exists, a focus on the evidence behind the most common practices will ensure the development of the optimal skillset to appropriately manage this disease.