Liver transplantation is a complex surgical procedure that replaces a severely damaged or failing liver with a healthy donor liver. It may be considered for patients with end-stage liver disease, advanced cirrhosis, acute liver failure, or certain liver cancers when other treatments are no longer effective.
When Is Liver Transplantation Recommended?
A liver transplant may be recommended when chronic liver disease significantly affects liver function and overall health. Common conditions associated with liver transplantation include advanced cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis-related liver damage, alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, autoimmune liver disorders, and selected cases of liver cancer.
Liver Transplant Evaluation and Procedure
Before transplantation, patients undergo a detailed evaluation that may include blood tests, imaging, cardiac assessment, nutritional evaluation, and other specialist consultations. The transplant team assesses the patient's overall health and suitability for surgery.
During liver transplant surgery, the diseased liver is removed and replaced with a donor liver. Depending on donor availability and medical suitability, transplantation may involve a deceased donor or a living donor.
Recovery After Liver Transplant
Recovery varies from person to person. Patients generally require close medical monitoring, regular follow-up appointments, blood tests, and long-term medicines such as immunosuppressants to reduce the risk of organ rejection. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following the transplant team's instructions are important parts of long-term care.