Liver Transplant

Liver transplantation is a surgical procedure commonly performed in cases of liver cancer, where there is an abnormal increase in cell reproduction. This intervention is typically recommended when a specific section of the liver is affected by infection. The treatment of liver cancer, including the possibility of a transplant, is determined based on the stage of the disease, similar to other forms of cancer treatment.

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Overview Symptoms Pre-Procedure During Procedure Post-Procedure Risk & Complications
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Liver Transplant – Overview

Liver transplantation is a surgical procedure performed to treat liver cancer, which is characterized by abnormal cell growth in the liver. The treatment approach for liver cancer depends on the stage of the disease. In many cases, reputable hospitals employ multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) to remove only the affected portion of the liver. However, if the entire liver is affected, a liver transplant may be necessary. This involves replacing the patient’s diseased liver with a healthy liver obtained from a donor. Liver cancer treatment is typically recommended for individuals with a family history of the disease, those who excessively consume alcohol or smoke, individuals with diabetes or liver disease, and those with weakened immune systems, among other risk factors.

Liver Transplant – Symptoms

In the early stages of primary liver cancer, there are no visible signs. Treatment for liver cancer typically begins when a person becomes critically ill due to liver damage, often requiring a liver transplantation. The standard signs and symptoms of liver cancer may include:
Jaundice, characterized by the yellowing of the skin, eyes, and tongue, which is a common indication of liver cancer.

Abdominal pain.
Sudden weight loss.
Swollen abdomen due to the enlargement of the liver.
Fatigue.
Nausea.
Vomiting sensation.
Persistent fever is a typical sign that should not be ignored.

These symptoms, referred to as nonspecific symptoms, can also be triggered by other chronic disorders.

In the early stages, these symptoms remain inactive, but once they surface, the disease becomes extremely difficult to control.

Liver Transplant – Pre-Procedure

Before a liver transplant, various tests including blood, urine, and heart tests are conducted as recommended by the doctor, considering the patient’s symptoms.
Once a suitable donor is found and the patient’s and donor’s livers match, the transplantation procedure can proceed.
Upon confirmation of a donor’s availability, the patient is typically placed on a waiting list until a suitable donor liver becomes available.
The average waiting time for a liver transplant for adults is approximately 142 days.
Specialist doctors meet with the patient’s family to explain the entire process and discuss the associated risks.
A written agreement is signed after completing all the necessary formalities.
Prior to the procedure, the patient is placed on a “Nil by Mouth” diet, which means they receive fluids through an IV drip.

Liver Transplant – During Procedure

The liver transplant procedure involves a team of specialists from the best liver hospitals in India, including a hematologist, an anesthesiologist, and paramedical support.
The entire process typically lasts between 6 to 12 hours.
Once all the monitoring devices are in place and anesthesia is administered, a tube connected to a ventilator is inserted to assist with breathing.
The final step involves removing the bile duct and replacing the diseased liver with the donor’s liver.

Liver Transplant – Post-Procedure

Following a liver transplant, the success rate is generally high. The patient is closely monitored after the surgery to ensure that vital signs such as blood pressure, pulse rate, sugar level, and body temperature are within normal ranges.
The recovery period typically lasts around 10 to 15 days, during which the patient’s condition is observed and necessary medical care is provided.
Once the patient has sufficiently recovered, they are allowed to leave the hospital.
It is important to note that the process of recovering from a liver transplant is a gradual one, requiring time and patience.
However, with proper care and management, most individuals are eventually able to resume their normal activities and enjoy a good quality of life.

Liver Transplant – Risk & Complications

After a liver transplant or liver surgery, there are potential risks and complications to be aware of. These include:

Rejection: There is a risk of the body’s immune system attacking the newly transplanted liver, which may require immunosuppressive medications to prevent rejection.
Poor liver function:The new liver may not function properly, leading to complications that require medical intervention.
Bile duct issues: Blockage or leakage in the bile duct can occur, which may necessitate further medical procedures or interventions.

Although liver transplant surgery is not without challenges, it has a high success rate. It is important to be prepared for both positive outcomes and potential complications when undergoing a liver transplant.