A liver transplant is a complex surgical procedure that involves replacing a diseased or damaged liver with a healthy one from a donor. This life-saving operation is typically recommended for patients with end-stage liver disease or acute liver failure when other treatment options have been exhausted.

How is it done?
The transplant surgery involves removing the patient's diseased liver and replacing it with either a whole liver or a portion of a healthy liver from a donor. There are three main types of liver transplants:

1. Orthotopic transplant: The most common type, where a whole liver from a deceased donor is used.
2. Living donor transplant: A portion of a living donor's liver is transplanted.
3. Split donation: A deceased donor's liver is split between an adult and a child recipient.

During the surgery, the surgeon makes an incision in the patient's abdomen, removes the diseased liver, and carefully connects the donor liver to the patient's blood vessels and bile ducts.

Reasons for Liver Transplant

Liver transplantation is recommended when a person's liver no longer functions adequately to sustain life. Common reasons include:

• Cirrhosis caused by chronic hepatitis C or long-term alcohol abuse
• Primary liver cancer
• Cholangitis
• Acute liver failure due to infection or medication complications

Benefits

Liver transplantation offers numerous benefits to patients with end-stage liver disease:

• Improved quality of life: Patients can return to normal daily activities and lead more productive lives.
• Increased life expectancy: The procedure is life-saving for many patients.
• Enhanced liver function: The new liver restores normal metabolic processes.
• Energy boost: Most recipients report increased energy levels and improved ability to cope with everyday activities.
• Increased productivity: Patients can often return to work and engage in various activities.
• Improved fertility: For those of childbearing age, fertility may be restored.

Donor Types
Liver transplants can be performed using organs from two types of donors:

1. Deceased donors: Most donated livers come from individuals who have arranged to be organ donors or whose families have granted permission after brain death.
2. Living donors: Often relatives or friends of the recipient undergo extensive medical and psychological evaluation before donating a portion of their liver.

Post-Transplant Care 

After the transplant, patients must take immunosuppressive medications for the rest of their lives to prevent rejection of the new liver. Regular follow-ups and monitoring are essential to ensure the success of the transplant and manage any potential complications.

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