Systemic versus nonsystemic reperfusion of the transplanted liver.

Reperfusion of the orthotopically transplanted liver can result in severe hemodynamic instability. This instability can result in the postreperfusion syndrome (PRS), which includes decreases in mean arterial pressure (MAP), systemic vascular resistance (SVR), and heart rate, and increases in central venous pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure. This syndrome appears to be mediated by the left ventricular mechanoreceptor reflex (LVMRR), which can be activated by changes in preload, afterload, or left ventricular contractility, and by the infusion of alkaloids or potassium into the right atrium. In an attempt to prevent activation of the LVMRR and PRS, we have inserted a cannula into the retrohepatic vena cava and have allowed the initial 500-600 cc of portal blood reperfusing hepatic allografts to be discarded. We compared this nonsystemic reperfusion (NSRP) of livers with systemic reperfusion (SRP), in which the initial portal blood reperfusing livers is allowed to enter the systemic circulation. In the NSRP group (n = 14) there was no decrease in MAP, heart rate, or SVR, and the serum potassium did not increase after reperfusion. In the SRP group (n = 14), six patients (42%) developed PRS and there were statistically significant decreases in MAP and SVR, and increases in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and serum potassium, as compared with the NSRP group. In conclusion, NSRP results in less hemodynamic instability during reperfusion, and should be considered the preferred method for reperfusion of the transplanted liver.