Liver transplant

Alternative names:

hepatic transplant; transplant of the liver

Expectations after surgery:

Liver transplants can save the lives of people who might otherwise die. Fifty percent of liver transplants in adults and 60% of liver transplants in children are alive two years after the operation. The major problems with any transplant is:

• finding a healthy organ
• graft rejection
• life-long need to take Immunosuppressive drugs, which weaken the body's ability to fight infections
• cost

The patient is encouraged to resume normal activities as soon as possible.

Convalescence:

The recovery period averages 12 weeks. Move legs often to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Resume normal activity as soon as possible after consulting with your physician.