From CodaZero Live, Alex Rowell reviews the available advanced liver supports for patients with acute liver failure.

Artificial supports for the liver are quite complex and difficult. This is largely due to the liver's complex function.

Some of the advanced liver supports include CVVHDF, Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System (MARS), Single Pass Albumin Dialysis (SPAD) and high volume plasma exchange.

In this podcast, Alex takes us through the research and evidence for these supports and shares some guidance on when they should be used. 

CVVHDF is familiar and effective but we need to remember to use it early with acute liver failure patients.

Furthermore, Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System (MARS) is widely studied but unfortunately not available in all places.

Single Pass Albumin Dialysis (SPAD) is easily implemented. Although there is less evidence on SPAD, it is generally agreed to be an effective support.

Unfortunately, there are no mortality benefits in any of these supports. They are however, useful tools in bridging to transplant.

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