Incidence, predictors and outcomes of new onset systolic heart failure following orthotopic liver transplant: A systematic review

Background

New onset Systolic heart failure (SHF), characterized by new onset left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction with a reduction in ejection fraction (EF) of <40%, is a common cause of morbidity and mortality among Orthotopic liver transplant (OLT) recipients. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence, the pre-transplant predictors, and the prognostic impact of SHF post-OLT.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of the literature using electronic databases MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Embase for studies reporting acute systolic heart failure post-liver transplant from inception to August 2021.

Result

Of 2604 studies, 13 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final systematic review. The incidence of new-onset SHF post OLT ranged from 1.2% to 14%. Race, sex, or body mass index did not significantly impact the post-OLT SHF incidence. Alcoholic liver cirrhosis, pre-transplant systolic or diastolic dysfunction, troponin, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) elevation, and hyponatremia were noted to be significantly associated with the development of SHF post-OLT. The significance of MELD score in the development of post-OLT SHF is controversial. Pre-transplant beta-blocker and post-transplant tacrolimus use were associated with a lower risk of developing SHF. The average 1-year mortality rate in patients with SHF post-OLT ranged from 0.00% to 35.2%.

Conclusion

Despite low incidence, SHF post-OLT can lead to higher mortality. Further studies are required to fully understand the underlying mechanism and risk factors.