Liver Transplant: Definition and Facts
A liver transplant is a surgical procedure in which a diseased or non-functioning liver is replaced with a healthy liver from a living or deceased donor. It is a life-saving treatment for individuals with end-stage liver disease or severe liver conditions that cannot be managed with other medical interventions. Key Facts: Indications for Liver Transplant: Liver transplantation is typically considered when a patient's liver is no longer able to perform its essential functions due to cirrhosis, liver cancer, acute liver failure, or specific genetic disorders. Types of Donors: Liver transplants can be performed using livers from two types of donors: Deceased Donor: A healthy liver is retrieved from a recently deceased person who has consented to organ donation. Living Donor: In some cases, a living donor, often a family member, can donate a portion of their liver. Transplant Procedure: The surgical procedure involves removing the recipient's diseased liver and replacing it wi...