Living Donor Liver Transplant (LDLT) is an advanced surgical procedure in which a portion of a healthy donor’s liver is transplanted into a patient whose liver is severely damaged or no longer functioning adequately. Because the liver has the ability to regenerate, the transplanted portion can grow to support normal liver function over time.
LDLT may be considered for patients with end-stage liver disease, advanced cirrhosis, certain liver cancers, acute liver failure, or other conditions requiring liver transplantation. The procedure involves detailed evaluation of both the recipient and potential donor to assess medical suitability and surgical safety.
Before Liver Transplantation
Patients typically undergo comprehensive liver transplant evaluation, including blood tests, imaging studies, cardiac assessment, liver function testing, and other specialist consultations. The donor is also carefully assessed to ensure that donation is medically appropriate and that the remaining liver is sufficient for their health.
Living Donor Liver Transplant Procedure
During LDLT, surgeons remove a suitable portion of the donor's liver and transplant it into the recipient. The surgical team carefully connects the blood vessels and bile ducts to establish proper circulation and bile drainage. Both donor and recipient require close monitoring after surgery.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery varies depending on overall health, surgical complexity, and individual circumstances. Regular follow-up, prescribed medications, laboratory testing, and medical monitoring are important after liver transplantation to help assess graft function and identify complications early.