2024-01-01 · transplant, hepatology, surgery
Liver Transplant Surgery FAQ
What Is a Liver Transplant?
A liver transplant is a procedure to replace a failing liver with a healthy donor liver. The donor liver may come from a deceased donor or, in some cases, a living donor who provides a portion of their liver. It is used when liver disease is advanced and no longer responds to medical therapy.
Why Might Someone Need a Liver Transplant?
Common reasons for liver transplantation include:
- Cirrhosis from hepatitis or alcohol-related disease
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NASH)
- Acute liver failure
- Primary biliary cholangitis or primary sclerosing cholangitis
- Liver cancer within transplant criteria
Evaluation includes lab testing, imaging, and assessment for transplant eligibility.
What Symptoms Suggest Advanced Liver Disease?
Symptoms may include:
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
- Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Confusion or sleepiness (hepatic encephalopathy)
- Fatigue, weight loss, or poor appetite
A transplant team monitors progression to determine timing.
About the Liver Transplant Procedure
Liver transplant surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts six to twelve hours. The diseased liver is removed, and the donor liver is connected to the blood vessels and bile ducts. Patients are monitored closely during and after surgery to ensure the new liver is functioning well.
What Happens After Liver Transplant Surgery?
Patients recover in the ICU and hospital for one to two weeks on average. Immunosuppressive medications are started to prevent rejection. Follow-up visits and lab tests are frequent early on to monitor liver function and medication levels.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery takes several months:
- Light activity often resumes in four to six weeks
- Many people return to work in two to three months
- Ongoing medication management and clinic visits continue long term
Rehabilitation and nutrition support help with recovery.
What Are the Potential Risks?
Possible complications include:
- Organ rejection
- Infection due to immunosuppression
- Bleeding or blood clots
- Bile duct complications
- Recurrence of underlying liver disease
Your care team will discuss individualized risks and prevention strategies.
When Should I Seek Medical Attention?
Contact your transplant team for fever, abdominal pain, jaundice, swelling, or changes in mental status. Any sudden decline in energy or appetite should be reported promptly.