Transplantation for acute liver failure: perioperative management.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: A number of conditions can lead to acute liver failure. Determining the cause has important prognostic implications that guide decisions regarding the likelihood of spontaneous recovery, or conversely, the need for transplantation. RECENT
FINDINGS: Neurological deterioration is associated with intracranial hypertension, which requires meticulous management. The decision to employ invasive intracranial pressure monitoring is controversial because of associated risks and the lack of controlled studies. Recent literature addressing the use of intracranial pressure monitoring is reviewed.
SUMMARY: Even tertiary care units that specialize in liver disease treat acute liver failure patients infrequently. Knowledge of the latest guidelines and treatment protocols can lead to improved patient care.