Prof. Dean Karvellas: "Cirrhosis in the ICU (acute on chronic liver failure) and the role of liver transplantation"

Acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF ~ cirrhosis with multiorgan failure) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. ACLF require ICU admission often for vasopressor support, intubation/mechanical ventilation for acute lung injury/hepatic encephalopathy and renal support for acute kidney injury often as a bridge to listing and receipt of a liver transplant. This lecture will review the definition of ACLF, discuss organ system management and discuss current challenges in getting these patients through a successful liver transplant.