Frequently Asked Questions on Liver Transplant
What is a liver transplant?
A liver transplant procedure replaces a diseased or damaged liver with a healthy one from a donor. The donor can be either living or deceased. It is done when the liver is no longer functioning properly, and other treatments have been unsuccessful.
Why is a liver transplant procedure performed?
The liver transplant procedure is done when the liver is damaged and can't be treated using medications. It is done to improve the patient's quality of life and survival.
Is liver transplant surgery safe?
Liver transplant surgery is generally considered safe, but like all major surgeries, it does carry some risks. The benefits of a liver transplant typically outweigh the risks for people with severe liver disease who are not responding to other treatments.
What is the success rate of liver transplant surgery?
The success rate of liver transplant surgery is generally high, with a survival rate of around 80-85% at one year and 70-75% at five years.
What are the different types of liver transplant procedure?
Two main types of liver transplant procedures are:
- Deceased donor transplant: In this type of liver transplant, the donor's liver comes from a person who has recently died.
- Living donor transplant: In this case, the donor's liver comes from a living person, typically a family member or close friend who is a match for the recipient.
What are the indications for liver transplant?
There are several indications for liver transplant surgery. A few indications are:
- End-stage liver disease
- Liver failure
- Certain types of liver cancer
- Biliary atresia
- Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
What are liver transplant side effects?
Some common side effects of liver transplantation include:
- Pain at the transplant site
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Rejection of the transplanted liver
- Changes in mental function
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in appetite
What are the advantages of liver transplant?
The advantage of liver transplant surgery are:
- Improved survival: A liver transplant can significantly improve the chances of survival for people with severe liver disease.
- Improved quality of life: A successful liver transplant can lead to an improvement in the patient's overall quality of life by relieving symptoms and improving their ability to engage in everyday activities.
- Treatment of underlying cause: A liver transplant can address the underlying cause of the liver disease, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, which may not be possible with other treatments.
- Faster recovery: In some cases, a liver transplant can result in a faster recovery compared to other treatments for liver disease.
What are the risks involved in liver transplant surgery?
The risks involved in the liver transplant procedure are:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Rejection of the transplanted liver
- Problems with the bile ducts
- Complications from anaesthesia
What is the criteria for liver transplant?
Few criteria for a liver transplant procedure are:
- Severity of liver disease: In order to be eligible for a liver transplant, a person must have severe liver disease that is not responding to other treatments.
- Overall health: In order to undergo a liver transplant, a person must be in good general health and free of other serious medical conditions that could complicate the surgery.
- Age: Older patients may be less likely to be considered due to the increased risk of complications.
- Lifestyle: A person must give up alcohol and drugs, in order to be eligible for a liver transplant.
- Availability of a suitable donor liver: A suitable donor liver must be available in order for a person to receive a transplant.
Who are not eligible for liver transplant surgery?
Candidates who are not eligible for liver transplant are:
- Metastatic cancer that has spread to the rest organs
- Severe medical conditions that can't be treated
- Misuse of prescribed drugs
- Mental disorder
- People who do substance abuse
Can you fully recover from a liver transplant?
Most people who undergo a liver transplant can fully recover and return to a normal quality of life. However, the recovery process can be lengthy and may involve a period of hospitalisation followed by rehabilitation.
How painful is a liver transplant?
A liver transplant is a major surgery and can be associated with some pain. The extent of the pain can vary from person to person, and it may be more severe in people who have had multiple surgeries in the past or who have other underlying health conditions. Pain after a liver transplant is usually managed with a combination of medications, ice, and physical therapy.
What is the most common complication of a liver transplant?
The most common complications of liver transplantation are bleeding, infection, and problems with the bile ducts. Other potential complications include rejection of the transplanted liver, complications from anaesthesia, and changes in mental function.
Not all patients will experience complications after a liver transplant, and the severity of the complications can vary from person to person.
What happens if a liver transplant fails?
If a liver transplant fails, it means that the transplanted liver is not functioning properly or has been rejected by the body. It can lead to severe complications, including liver failure, and may require additional treatment, such as a repeat liver transplant or other supportive measures. In some cases, liver transplant failure may be fatal.
What percentage of liver transplants are rejected?
Out of every 100 experiences, up to 30 patients face rejection. In the first six months following a transplant, the risk of rejection is at its highest. After this period, the liver is less likely to be recognised as foreign by your body's immune system. In 2 out of every 100 patients, chronic rejection occurs.
What is the cost of a liver transplant procedure in India?
The liver transplant cost in India can vary depending on various factors, such as the hospital and the patient's specific medical needs. The amount can range from around INR 15-35 lakhs.
Is the liver transplant procedure covered under insurance?
Yes, all health insurance plans cover liver transplant surgery. Our team facilitates paperwork on your behalf, ensuring smooth approval and a cashless facility. Contact HexaHealth for a simple cashless, and hassle-free experience.