What is a Liver Transplant?
A liver transplant is a surgical procedure that removes a diseased liver and replaces it with a healthy donor liver. It's typically considered when liver disease has progressed to end-stage liver failure.
When Is a Transplant Needed?
Common conditions requiring transplantation include:
- Cirrhosis
- Hepatitis B or C
- Primary liver cancer
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Autoimmune liver diseases
- Genetic liver disorders
The Transplant Process
1. Evaluation
- Comprehensive medical assessment
- Psychological evaluation
- Financial and insurance review
- Blood type and tissue matching
2. Waiting Period
- Placement on national transplant waiting list
- MELD score determination
- Regular health monitoring
3. Surgery
Duration: 4-8 hours
Types:
- Deceased donor transplant
- Living donor transplant (partial liver)
4. Recovery
- Initial ICU stay (2-4 days)
- Hospital stay (1-2 weeks)
- Home recovery (3-6 months)
Post-Transplant Care
Medications
- Immunosuppressants
- Anti-infection medications
- Other prescribed medications
Follow-up Care
- Regular clinic visits
- Blood tests
- Lifestyle modifications
Success Rates and Outlook
- 1-year survival rate: ~90%
- 5-year survival rate: ~75%
- Quality of life typically improves significantly
Potential Complications
- Rejection
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Bile duct complications
Living with a Transplanted Liver
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Take medications as prescribed
- Regular medical check-ups
- Avoid alcohol
- Practice good hygiene
Support Resources
- Transplant team contact
- Support groups
- Mental health services
- Financial counseling