Introduction. Hemodynamic instability is a common occurrence during liver transplantation (LT). Hypotension and hemodynamic instability during graft reperfusion are most commonly consequences of the postreperfusion syndrome (PRS). Case Outline. In this report, we present a case of severe cardiovascular collapse leading to cardiac arrest which occurred in the course of graft reperfusion during LT. Persistent hypotension, non-responsive to regular measures such as volume filling and the use of vasopressors, yielded the question of whether other mechanisms were involved in causing it. Diffuse redness of the face and body, swelling of the face, lips and tongue with tongue prolapse, accompanied with severe cardiovascular collapse indicated that it was an anaphylactic reaction. This caused a dilemma as to what instigated the reaction. The trigger may have been the pharmacological substance administered during the graft reperfusion, or the one administered immediately prior to the reperfusion. The substances in question would most likely be either the University of Wisconsin preservation solution (UW), which was administered during the reperfusion, or Hepatect, which the patient received immediately prior to reperfusion. Conclusion. The clinical syndrome resulting from degranulation of mast cells and basophils in anaphylaxis is very similar to the PRS in LT. Clinical features play the most important role in establishing a timely diagnosis and early treatment of anaphylaxis. Swift administration of epinephrine reduces the chances of a fatal outcome. Better information on both donor and recipient can improve the efficiency of therapy and prophylaxis for anaphylaxis.
Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine whether the use of an alveolar recruitment maneuver (RM) leads to a significant increase in static lung compliance (Cstat) and an improvement in gas exchange in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Material and Methods: A clinical prospective intervention study was conducted. Patients were divided into two groups according to their body mass index (BMI): normal-weight (group I) and pre-obese and obese grade I (group II). Lung mechanics were monitored (Cstat, dynamic compliance—Cdin, peak pressure—Ppeak, plateau pressure—Pplat, driving pressure—DP) alongside gas exchange, and hemodynamic changes (heart rate—HR, mean arterial pressure—MAP) at six time points: T1 (induction of anesthesia), T2 (formation of pneumoperitoneum), T3 (RM with a PEEP of 5 cm H2O), T4 (RM with a PEEP of 7 cm H2O), T5 (desufflation), and T6 (RM at the end). The RM was performed by increasing the peak pressure by +5 cm of H2O at an equal inspiration-to-expiration ratio (I/E = 1:1) and applying a PEEP of 5 and 7 cm of H2O. Results: Out of 96 patients, 33 belonged to group I and 63 to group II. An increase in Cstat values occurred after all three RMs. At each time point, the Cstat value was measured higher in group I than in group II. A higher increase in Cstat was observed in group II after the second and third RM. Cstat values were higher at the end of the surgical procedure compared to values after the induction of anesthesia. The RM led to a significant increase in PaO2 in both groups without changes in HR or MAP. Conclusions: During laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the application of RM leads to a significant increase in Cstat and an improvement in gas exchange. The prevention of atelectasis during anesthesia should be initiated immediately after the induction of anesthesia, using protective mechanical ventilation and RM.