HEPATIC SUPPORT WITH ARTIFICIAL LIVER SYSTEM BEFORE LIVER TRANSPLANTATION FOR SEVERE HEPATITIS / 解放军医学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate the application of artificial liver support system (ALSS) in severe hepatitis patients before liver transplantation. Methods Double lumen catheters were inserted into the femoralvein to construct the blood conduit in patients receiving ALSS. The blood purification apparatus was applied for plasma replacement and blood perfusion with PIS separator and HA hemoperfusion apparatus. The plasma replacement capacity was 3000ml-4000ml (average 3200 ml) with albumin 20g. The average dosages of both heparin and protamine were 25 mg. The separation speed was 26 ml/min. The replacement blood flow was 100-150 ml/min, and the average treatment time was 120 min. Results The liver function markers, including TB, DB, ALT, AST and NH 3, were improved in patients with ALSS. Conclusion ALSS could correct the imbalance of homeostasis of the patients, eliminate the toxic substances effectively and provide valuable support for liver transplantation.