Dr. Emma Saunsbury, a hepatology fellow at the John Radcliffe Hospital, specializes in liver transplant and complex liver cases. She dives into the intricacies of liver transplant examinations, sharing techniques for identifying candidates and managing post-transplant care. Emma discusses the importance of risk scores like MELD and Child-Pugh in assessing patients, and she offers insights into tailored management strategies for septic and transplant patients. With a focus on adaptability in consultations, she emphasizes how patient care must meet individual needs.
Recognizing liver transplant indicators, including typical scars, is crucial for excelling in gastrointestinal examination stations during PACES.
Understanding various conditions leading to liver transplants, such as chronic liver disease and acute liver failure, enhances exam preparation and clinical insight.
Holistic ongoing management of liver transplant patients involves addressing both medical needs and psychosocial support for long-term health.
Deep dives
Introduction of New Sponsor and Discount Code
A new sponsor, Quesmed, is introduced as a doctor-driven platform tailored for online Paces revision. Listeners can utilize a discount code, PREPACES15, to receive 15% off high-quality sample videos and extensive examiner questions, aiding their exam preparation. This sponsorship highlights the value of utilizing reputable resources during study sessions. The speaker encourages audience engagement through early course sign-ups for optimal preparation.
Recognition of Listener Support and Achievements
The host expresses gratitude towards listeners who contributed to the podcast, acknowledging their donations and achievements in passing various medical exams. Personal successes of listeners are highlighted, showcasing the positive impact of the podcast on their exam readiness and mindset. This recognition fosters a community spirit among listeners and encourages continued support. Such acknowledgments underline the importance of shared experiences in the pursuit of medical qualifications.
Liver Transplant Examination Insights
The episode discusses the significance of recognizing liver transplant indicators during examinations, particularly in GI stations where performance is expected to be high. The guest emphasizes the importance of identifying typical transplant scars, such as the Mercedes Benz and reverse L scars, as initial diagnostic clues. After establishing diagnosis, critical thinking regarding underlying causes of the transplant is essential, moving forward to assess graft function and overall health. This structured approach provides listeners with a framework for thorough examination practices.
Differential Diagnosis and Considerations
The conversation explores the various conditions that may necessitate a liver transplant, categorizing them into chronic liver disease, acute liver failure, and non-liver failure related reasons. Common causes include alcohol-related liver disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The importance of using tools such as the UK End-Stage Liver Disease (UKELD) score for evaluating transplant eligibility is emphasized. Such discussions guide listeners in understanding the complexities surrounding liver transplants.
Ongoing Management and Patient Safety
A holistic approach to the ongoing management of liver transplant patients is crucial, considering both physical health and psychosocial support. Regular monitoring for metabolic issues, skin cancer risk due to immunosuppression, and other health factors is essential for long-term patient care. The discussion highlights the need for patient education on medication adherence, lifestyle changes, and participation in screening programs. These discussions reinforce the importance of comprehensive care beyond the immediate transplant procedure.
Dr Emma Saunsbury, post CCT fellow in Hepatology at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, joins Sam to discuss liver transplant in PACES. Emma brings a huge amount of value for anyone sitting their PACES or anyone on a gastroenterology post who looks after complex liver patients!
