A liver transplant replaces a diseased or failing liver with a healthy donor organ. It is considered for people with end-stage liver disease, acute liver failure, or certain liver cancers when other treatments are no longer effective.
Preparation Guidelines of Liver Transplant
- Candidates undergo extensive evaluation including blood tests, imaging, cardiac and pulmonary assessments, and psychosocial screening.
- You may be placed on a national transplant waiting list.
- Follow dietary and medication instructions while waiting for surgery.
- Arrange long-term support, as recovery requires frequent follow-ups.
What to Expect
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and usually lasts 6–12 hours. The diseased liver is removed, and the donor liver is implanted and connected to blood vessels and bile ducts.
Risks and Complications of Liver Transplant
- Bleeding, infection, or bile duct complications.
- Risk of organ rejection despite anti-rejection medications.
- Side effects from long-term immunosuppressive therapy.
Results and Follow-Up of Liver Transplant
Survival rates are high, and many patients return to good quality of life. Ongoing follow-up includes regular blood tests, imaging, and medication adjustments. Lifelong medical care is necessary.