2022 Webinar: The Art and Science of Managing Acute on Chronic Liver Failure-The Art and Science of Managing Acute on Chronic Liver Failure

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Today's webinar focused on acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) and the management principles involved. The presenters discussed the definition and classification of ACLF, as well as the prognostic factors and outcomes associated with the condition. They emphasized the importance of early palliative care integration for improving patient quality of life. The role of frailty and sarcopenia assessments in determining patients' palliative care needs was also highlighted. It was recommended that all patients with decompensated cirrhosis and their caregivers be evaluated for unmet palliative care needs and considered for specialty palliative care consultation. The presenters also discussed effective communication strategies for discussing prognosis, advanced care planning, and end-of-life care with ACLF patients and their families. They stressed the importance of integrating palliative care early in the disease course and maintaining continuity of care to prepare patients for complex decisions. The presenters emphasized that the goal of palliative care is to improve quality of life and that patients with ACLF have significant palliative care needs that should be addressed through primary or specialty palliative care interventions. Overall, the webinar provided valuable insights into the management of ACLF and integrating palliative care principles into clinical practice to improve patient outcomes.

Keywords

acute on chronic liver failure

ACLF

management principles

palliative care integration

prognostic factors

frailty assessments

sarcopenia assessments

specialty palliative care consultation

communication strategies

improve quality of life