The effects of donor sodium levels on recipient liver graft function.

A great deal of discussion has been generated regarding the effects of donor hypernatremia on recipient liver graft function. Much of this discussion is anecdotal and focuses on the detrimental effects of hypernatremia in the organ donor. The treatment of donor hypernatremia often leads to changes in donor management protocols. A retrospective study was conducted to determine if donor hypernatremia measurably alters the liver graft function of recipients. Results indicated that donor sodium values were unrelated to any recipient parameter assessed. Although further studies are pending, these findings suggest that a moderate rather than a severe approach to the management of donor hypernatremia may be preferred.