[Disorders of respiration in patients before and after liver transplantation].

In 61 patients with chronic hepatic insufficiency parameters of regulation of ventilation, mechanics of breathing and gas exchange were determined pre and in 16 patients post liver transplantation. Preoperatively disturbances of control with increased central respiratory drive resulting in chronic hyperventilation and maladaptation of perfusion to ventilation were found. Successful liver transplantation resulted in regression of these disturbances to different degrees. We therefore conclude that disturbances of respiration in patients with chronic hepatic insufficiency are reversible after successful liver transplantation.