Liver transplantation is a pivotal intervention for individuals with end-stage liver disease, offering a vital lifeline. It involves surgically replacing a diseased liver with a healthy one from either a deceased or living donor. The procedure, supported by advancements in surgery and immunosuppressive therapy, enhances survival and quality of life. It epitomises medical innovation and underscores the transformative power of modern medicine in combating hepatic disorders.

Criteria of Liver Transplant

End-stage liver disease with significant functional impairment.
Failure of conservative management or medical therapy.
Absence of contraindications such as active infections, uncontrolled malignancy, or severe cardiopulmonary disease.
Adequate social support and adherence to post-transplant care regimen.
Absence of substance abuse or dependence.
Evaluation of recipient's overall health status and ability to withstand surgery and immunosuppressive therapy.
Patients should be included in a national or regional transplant waiting list based on established prioritisation criteria.
Compatibility of recipient's blood type and body size with available donor organs.

Liver transplantation | Surgery

Liver transplantation surgery involves the meticulous removal of a diseased liver from the recipient, followed by the precise implantation of a healthy liver obtained from a deceased or living donor. This intricate procedure requires a highly skilled surgical team adept at navigating the complexities of liver anatomy and vascular structures.

The recipient's native liver is carefully dissected and disconnected from surrounding blood vessels and bile duct before being replaced with the donor's liver, ensuring proper vascular and biliary connections to restore liver function. Post-surgery, meticulous monitoring and management are essential to mitigate the risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, and rejection, thereby optimising the chances of a successful transplant outcome and long-term survival for the recipient.

Procedure of Liver Transplantation

Recipient and donor evaluation- Thorough assessment of both recipient and potential donor to ensure suitability for transplantation.
Pre-operative preparation- The recipient undergoes pre-operative evaluations and medical interventions to optimise health before surgery.
Surgery initiation- The diseased liver is meticulously removed from the recipient, preserving surrounding structures.
Donor liver implantation- A healthy donor liver is transplanted into the recipient, ensuring proper vascular and biliary connections.
Post-operative care- The recipient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit, receiving immunosuppressive medications to prevent rejection.
Rehabilitation- The recipient undergoes a comprehensive rehabilitation programme post-surgery.
Long-term follow-up- Ongoing monitoring for signs of rejection or complications and optimisation of the recipient's overall health and well-being.

Recovery Process After Liver Transplant

The recovery process following a liver transplant involves a multidisciplinary team approach aimed at ensuring the recipient's optimal physical and psychological well-being. Post-surgery, patients are closely monitored in the hospital, focusing on managing pain, preventing infections, and monitoring signs of organ rejection.

As the patient stabilises, they transition to a rehabilitation programme to restore strength, mobility, and independence. Integral to recovery is adherence to a strict regimen of immunosuppressive medications to prevent rejection of the new liver. Long-term follow-up care involves regular medical assessments to monitor liver function, detect any potential complications, and provide ongoing support to promote a healthy and fulfilling life post-transplant.

Conclusion

Liver transplantation represents the pinnacle of medical intervention for end-stage liver disease, and rigorous standards strictly govern it. Successful recovery heralds a future of improved health and energy, thanks to meticulous post-operative care that includes rehabilitation and vigilant long-term monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions About Liver Transplant

Q. What is liver transplant surgery?
A. Liver transplant surgery replaces a diseased liver with a healthy liver from a donor.

Q. How do I get a liver transplant?
A. To get a liver transplant, you need to be evaluated by a medical team to see if you meet the criteria. If you qualify, you'll be placed on a waiting list until a suitable donor liver becomes available.

Q. Is a liver transplant a treatment option?
A. Yes, a liver transplant is a therapy option for those who have end-stage liver disease or acute liver failure. It involves surgically replacing a diseased liver with a healthy one from a deceased or living donor.

Q. What are the criteria for a liver transplant?
A. The criteria for a liver transplant include having end-stage liver disease, failure of other treatments, absence of contraindications like severe infections or uncontrolled cancer, and being physically able to undergo surgery and follow-up care.