Liver transplantation in patients with alcohol and other substance use disorders

Liver transplant programs are confronted with increasing numbers of transplant candidates and recipients with alcohol and substance use disorders. Although the percentage of those who relapse post-transplant is low, these patients may have special treatment needs that are different from the general addiction population. Post-transplant clinical interviews, preferably by a trained psychiatric physician and/or clinician, are essential to monitoring alcohol and substance use. Additionally, early-on surveillance is required. This article reviews the current knowledge of alcohol and substance use disorders in liver transplant patients and strategies for treatment and clinical management of those patients.