It is known that hepatic cirrhosis is associated with cardiovascular abnormalities. These abnormalities have been suggested to induce/aggravate several complications of cirrhosis, and also to increase postoperative mortality after major surgery or liver transplantation. Few studies documented the existence of a hyperdynamic circulation, with increased cardiac output and reduced systemic vascular resistance. Despite this hyperkinetic circulation, some patients have abnormal ventricular function unmasked by physiologic/pharmacologic stress.