Liver Transplant
Liver Transplant
Patients in need of a liver transplant no longer have to travel out of the state to receive treatment. Evaluation, surgery, and follow-up care for adults in need of a new liver are offered through University Transplant, the state's only transplant program. Our specialized care team of experienced surgeons and hepatologists focuses on personalized family-centered care.
A liver transplant is a surgical procedure performed to replace a diseased liver with a healthy organ from another person. An entire liver may be transplanted or just a section. As the only organ in the body that regenerates, a transplanted portion of liver can rebuild to normal capacity within a few weeks.
Often, transplant is the last hope for a person with serious liver dysfunction. The most common liver disease leading to a transplant is cirrhosis. Other diseases that may lead to transplant include, but are not limited to:
- Chronic liver disease
- Benign or malignant liver tumors
- Viral hepatitis
- Fatty liver disease
- Bile duct disorders, such as primary sclerosing cholangitis
- Benign or malignant bile duct strictures/obstructions
Living with a transplant is a lifelong process. At University Transplant, we're by each patient's side every step of the way, from evaluation, through wait-listing, surgery, and for many years after transplantation.
Transplant clinic
University Transplant provides a variety of follow-up care and recommendations for patients receiving a donated liver. Our follow-up team helps patients maintain their health and enjoy a renewed way of life.
In the first few months after transplantation, patients are seen in the transplant clinic for checkups. The transplant care team will review the medications that must be taken to prevent rejection of the new liver, monitor the new liver's function, address any symptoms, and answer any questions. We also work closely with each patient's local physician(s) who will play an active role in recovery.
Transplant patient support group
University Transplant offers a support group for all solid organ transplant patients.
- When: Second Thursday in March, June, September and December at 5:30 p.m.
- Where: University Physicians Pavilion, Room MO-15
- For more information, call (601) 984-5065.