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Chapters
0:00 Introduction
0:47 Initial discomfort
1:50 Caring for yourself at home
Liver transplantation is a life-saving medical procedure that involves replacing a diseased liver with a healthy liver from a donor. It is a complex surgery that requires extensive preparation and follow-up care. If you or a loved one is in need of a liver transplant, here's what you can expect from the process:
Evaluation and preparation: Before you can receive a liver transplant, you will undergo a series of medical tests and evaluations to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the surgery. This includes a review of your medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. You may also need to undergo imaging tests such as MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound to assess the condition of your liver.
Waitlisting: Once you are deemed eligible for a liver transplant, you will be placed on a national waiting list maintained by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). The wait time for a liver transplant can vary depending on the availability of suitable donors, your medical condition, and other factors.
Transplant surgery: When a suitable donor becomes available, you will be notified and asked to come to the hospital for the transplant surgery. The surgery typically lasts between 6 and 12 hours and requires a hospital stay of 1 to 2 weeks.
Post-transplant care: After the surgery, you will need to stay in the hospital for a few days or weeks to recover and receive post-operative care. This includes monitoring for signs of rejection, infection, and other complications. You will also need to take medications to prevent rejection of the new liver and manage other health issues.
Long-term follow-up: Liver transplant is not a cure for liver disease, and you will need to undergo long-term follow-up care to ensure the health of your new liver. This includes regular visits to your transplant team, blood tests, imaging tests, and lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding alcohol and certain medications.
Liver transplantation is a complex and life-changing procedure that requires a significant amount of preparation, care, and commitment. If you or a loved one is considering a liver transplant, it is important to have a thorough understanding of the process and to work closely with your medical team to ensure the best possible outcome. With proper care and attention, a liver transplant can provide a new lease on life and a chance to enjoy a healthy and fulfilling future.
