Does Hepatic Encephalopathy Impair Driving Ability?

Recent research suggests that cirrhotic patients with even minimal hepatic encephalopathy (HE) have impaired driving abilities (JW Gastroenterol Oct 5 2007). But most such findings are based on computerized tests or past driving history. In the current study, German investigators used a variety of methods — including assessment of performance during real driving situations — to evaluate driving abilities in cirrhotic patients with and without HE.

All participants — 51 cirrhotic patients and 48 healthy controls — underwent extensive neuropsychological testing. Of the cirrhotic patients, 10 had no HE, 27 had minimal HE, and 14 had overt (grade 1) HE. Participants also completed driving tests in a selected traffic exercise area. A driving instr…