Tracheostomy Following Liver Transplantation

BACKGROUND: With increased demand for liver transplantation, sicker patients are being transplanted frequently. These patients are at a higher risk of significant postoperative morbidity, including respiratory failure. This study evaluated the phenotype that characterizes liver transplant candidates who may benefit from early tracheostomy. METHODS: A single center retrospective review of all liver transplant candidates between January 2012 and December 2017. Patients who eventually required tracheostomies were identified and compared to their counterparts. RESULTS: Of the 130 liver transplants performed during the study period, 11 patients required tracheostomy. Although patients in the tracheostomized population (TP) did not have significantly worse preoperative functional status ( 30), net postoperative fluid balance >6 L, and PaO2/FiO2 ratio