Liver Transplantation

Liver Transplantation: A Lifesaving Procedure Explained

Liver transplantation is a major surgical procedure used to replace a diseased or failing liver with a healthy one from a donor. It is a critical treatment option for patients with end-stage liver disease, certain types of liver cancer, or acute liver failure.

Who Needs A Liver Transplant?

This procedure is typically recommended for individuals with:

• Cirrhosis caused by hepatitis B or C, alcohol abuse, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

• Autoimmune liver disorders

• Genetic conditions such as Wilson’s disease or hemochromatosis

• Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) within specific criteria

• Acute liver failure due to poisoning or viral infections

Donor Criteria: Who Can Donate a Liver?

Liver donors can be deceased or living. A healthy liver can regenerate, allowing a portion of it to be transplanted from a living donor.

Living Donor Requirements:

• Age 18–60, in good overall health

• No history of liver disease, cancer, or transmissible infections

• Compatible blood type with the recipient

• Psychologically and emotionally stable

• Voluntarily willing to donate, with informed consent

Living donors typically donate the right lobe (for adults) or left lobe (for children), depending on the recipient’s size and need.

💚 Considering a liver transplant? Contact  AlaanMed today to connect with world-class transplant specialists and receive a personalized treatment plan.

 

Success Rate of Liver Transplants

Liver transplant procedures have a high success rate, especially when performed at experienced centers with well-coordinated care:

• One-year survival rate: 85–90%

• Five-year survival rate: 70–75%

• Outcomes continue to improve with advanced techniques, better donor screening, and personalized post-op care.

The success depends on factors like the underlying disease, overall health of the recipient, donor quality, and compliance with post-transplant care.

Post-Transplant Care for the Recipient

Proper recovery and long-term survival require strict adherence to medical guidance:

• Immunosuppressive medications: To prevent organ rejection, lifelong medications must be taken consistently

• Frequent follow-ups: Regular liver function tests, ultrasounds, and biopsy (if needed)

• Infection prevention: Due to suppressed immunity, patients must avoid crowds, sick contacts, and stay current with vaccinations

• Healthy lifestyle: Balanced diet, no alcohol, moderate activity, and weight control

• Psychological support: To manage emotional stress and adapt to post-transplant life

Postoperative Care For The Donor

While liver donation is generally safe, it is still a major surgery and requires a proper recovery period:

• Hospital stay: Typically 5–7 days

• Recovery time: Around 6–8 weeks before returning to work or normal activities

• Short-term discomfort: Pain, fatigue, and temporary digestion issues may occur

• Liver regrowth: The liver regenerates to its full size within 2–3 months

• Long-term health: Donors usually return to full health with no lasting complications, but annual checkups are recommended

Important Considerations

• Psychosocial evaluation is essential for both donor and recipient to ensure readiness and understanding of the risks.

• Financial planning is important—while the recipient bears the transplant cost, donor expenses (tests, surgery, follow-up) are also covered in ethical programs.

• Support system: A reliable caregiver and support group improve recovery and emotional wellbeing.

Why Choose AlaanMed For Liver Transplantation?

At AlaanMed, We ensure:

• Access to internationally renowned transplant surgeons and hepatology teams

• Accredited medical centers with advanced transplant facilities

• Complete coordination for international patients: medical visa, airport pickup, translation, and accommodation

• Ethical living donor evaluation and post-op support

• Transparent cost packages and 24/7 assistance throughout your journey