Severe hypotension during reperfusion in liver transplantation is a frequent adverse event. Rare data exist so far about pathophysiology of this phenomenon. The exact role of left ventricular function, which might be impaired causing hypotension, has not been elucidated during the period of reperfusion.

Goal of this study is to:

• perform transesophageal echocardiography in order to assess systolic and diastolic left ventricular function during reperfusion
• determine inflammatory mediators in the plasma which could cause left ventricular dysfunction

Inclusion criteria:

• Patients on waiting list for liver transplantation.
• Age: 18-75 years.

Exclusion criteria:

• Strictures, tumours and diverticula of the oesophagus.
• History of oesophageal varices with recent bleeding.
• Oesophageal varices and prothrombin time less than 20% or platetlets les than 30000/ml.
• Instable cervical spine.
• Involvement in other studies.

Patients on waiting list for liver transplantation