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The hepatology dietitian works with patients who have liver problems
to reduce or remove the risk of them becoming malnourished. Patients
who have liver problems have special dietary requirements. The dietitian
cares for the patient closely, making regular visits and assessments
to educate the patient about how to control what they eat and drink
in order to maintain their optimum health.
Who we provide a service to
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the hepatology dietitian provides a service to all hepatology
inpatients including those who will go on to have a liver transplant
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the liver transplant dietitian is an integral part of the liver
transplant team
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the dietitian carries out nutritional assessments on all patients
who are referred to Addenbrooke's for liver transplant assessment.
Patients who are accepted on to the waiting list often require
pre-operative nutritional support and nutritional monitoring.
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After a liver transplant, the dietitian provides nutritional
support and monitoring to the patient on the ward and afterwards
in the transplant clinic. This support is provided until the
patient is well nourished and within their ideal weight range.
Education
Why we provide a service
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Patients who have chronic liver disease are at a greater risk
of malnutrition.
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During the pre- and post-transplant periods, a patient can
experience a poor appetite and malnutrition. As a result, the
patient can develop avoidable complications that might require
more intensive care and an increased length of stay in hospital.
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The hepatology dietitian works to reduce or remove the risk
of malnutrition, thus contributing to a reduced length of stay,
reduced frequency of admissions, reduced need for ventilator
support, reduced chance of viral infection and a reduced requirement
for special dietary supplements.
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Nutritional assessment and intervention are crucial in the
treatment of liver disease. The majority of hospitalised patients
require advice to increase their energy and protein intake via
diet and dietary supplements. Those unable to meet nutritional
requirements by mouth, can require artificial nutritional support
via nasogastric feeding.
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Further dietary adaptations may be required eg sodium restriction
in patients who have ascites, but only if overall nutritional
intake and status is not compromised. The dietitian is best
placed to make this decision.
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There are several widespread myths about diet, jaundice and
liver disease - it is important patients receive regular dietetic
intervention to prevent them receiving inappropriate dietary
advice from other sources.
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Within the first 18 months after a liver transplant, patients
are at a high risk of excessive weight gain and also high cholesterol
(hypercholesterolaemia). The dietitian, therefore, plays an
important role for long-term dietetic evaluation and counselling
of these patients to reduce these risks.
Other Useful Links
For further information contact: The Department of Nutrition & Dietetics,
Box 119, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 2QQ; Tel: 01223 216
655; Fax: 01223 216 824 |
