Pain management for liver transplant recipients

We present current evidence-based literature that reviews optimal pain management strategies for this challenging patient demographic.RECENT FINDINGS: Multiple studies have shown that thoracic epidurals provide superior pain control in open hepatic resections. Recent data suggests thoracic epidurals may be safely considered in select liver transplant recipients with normal preoperative coagulation status; however, this evidence is limited, and further studies are needed. When the risks of coagulopathy prohibit epidural placement, truncal blocks such as transversus abdominis plane blocks or quadratus lumborum blocks and abdominal wound catheters can serve as alternative regional modalities. Specialized teams should manage pain using a multimodal approach.SUMMARY: Thoracic epidural analgesia may be an option for liver transplant recipients with normal coagulation profiles prior to surgery; however, additional studies are warranted. Other regional techniques are also available. Emphasis should be placed on optimizing multimodal pain medication management. Nonpharmacological interventions should also be considered.PMID:37728190 | DOI:10.1097/MOT.0000000000001102
Source: Current Opinion in Organ Transplantation - Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: Source Type: research