Liver transplantation
Liver Transplantation[edit | edit source]
Introduction[edit | edit source]
Liver transplantation is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a diseased liver with a healthy liver from another person. This life-saving operation is typically reserved for individuals with end-stage liver disease, acute liver failure, liver cancer, or certain genetic disorders.
Indications for Liver Transplantation[edit | edit source]
Liver transplantation is considered in cases where other treatments have failed, and the liver's ability to function properly is severely compromised. Conditions warranting liver transplantation include:
- End-Stage Liver Disease (ESLD): Often resulting from conditions like Cirrhosis or Hepatitis C.
- Acute Liver Failure: Caused by factors such as drug overdose or infections.
- Liver Cancer: Specifically in early stages where the cancer is confined to the liver.
- Genetic Disorders: Such as Wilson's disease or Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency.
Types of Liver Transplants[edit | edit source]
There are different types of liver transplantation procedures:
- Deceased Donor Liver Transplant (DDLT): Involves transplanting a liver from a deceased donor.
- Living Donor Liver Transplant (LDLT): A portion of the liver is taken from a living donor and transplanted into the recipient.
Pre-Transplant Evaluation[edit | edit source]
Candidates for liver transplantation undergo a comprehensive evaluation process to assess their suitability, including medical history, physical examination, and a series of tests.
Surgical Procedure[edit | edit source]
The transplantation surgery involves removing the recipient’s diseased liver and replacing it with the donor liver. The complexity of the surgery requires a skilled surgical team and can take several hours to complete.
Post-Transplant Care[edit | edit source]
Following the surgery, patients receive close monitoring and long-term care, which includes:
- Immunosuppressive medication to prevent organ rejection.
- Regular follow-up appointments for monitoring liver function and overall health.
- Lifestyle changes to maintain the health of the transplanted liver.
Challenges and Complications[edit | edit source]
Liver transplantation can have complications, such as rejection of the new liver, infection, and issues related to long-term immunosuppression.
External Links[edit | edit source]
- Mayo Clinic: Liver Transplant
- U.S. Government Information on Organ Donation and Transplantation: Organ Matching Process
References[edit | edit source]
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Liver Transplantation
- American Transplant Foundation: Liver Transplantation
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