DefinePK

Abstract

Background: Histologically, cirrhosis is characterised by distorted hepatocellular regeneration, aberrant fibrosis, and bridging fibrous septa that result in strange hepatocellular architecture. Clinically, this manifests in a variety of ways like lethargy, pruritus and jaundice etc. However, in end stage liver disease, a phase called decompensated liver cirrhosis appears which is manifested in the form of ascites, portal hypertension, splenomegaly, gastro-esophageal varices and in the worst cases, hepatic encephalopathy.
Objective: To determine the frequency of oxygen desaturation in patients with decompensated cirrhosis by using pulse oximetry at rest and after 6 minutes walk on a flat surface.
Methodology: This descriptive study of 139 patients were carried out at Medicine Deptt of Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar from October 2019 to April 2020. To meet the diagnostic requirements of decompensated liver cirrhosis, including smaller liver, dilated portal vein, splenomegaly, and ascites, a liver ultrasound was conducted. All patients had their oxygen saturation checked using a Santa Medical Generation 2 pulse oximeter both at rest and after a 6-minute walk. All information was entered into a proforma that was created specifically for this use. To control variables and research bias, strict exclusion criteria was followed.
Results:  In the current study, 139 patients were analysed, of whom 29% were between the ages of 30 and 50 and 71% between the ages of 51 and 70. The SD was 10.85, and the mean age was 58. 34% of patients were female and 66% were male. Only 25 patients (18%) out of the whole group of patients had oxygen desaturation throughout the six-minute walking test.
Conclusion: Frequency of oxygen desaturation (after 6 minutes walk on a flat surface) was 18% in patients presenting with decompensated liver cirrhosis.
Key Words: Oxygen desaturation; Hepatic encephalopathy; Decompensated; Liver cirrhosis