Surgery
Liver Transplant
A liver transplant replaces a failing liver with a healthy one from a donor, for people with severe liver disease.
Quick answer
Liver Transplant: what it is, why it's done and what happens
A liver transplant removes a diseased liver and replaces it with a whole or part liver from a deceased donor, or part of a liver from a living donor. The liver can regenerate, so partial grafts can grow.
- Why it is done: It is used for end-stage liver disease (such as advanced cirrhosis), some liver cancers, sudden liver failure, and certain inherited liver conditions, when the liver can no longer sustain health.
- What happens: Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the diseased liver and implants the donor liver, connecting blood vessels and bile ducts.
What it is
A liver transplant removes a diseased liver and replaces it with a whole or part liver from a deceased donor, or part of a liver from a living donor. The liver can regenerate, so partial grafts can grow.
Why it is done
It is used for end-stage liver disease (such as advanced cirrhosis), some liver cancers, sudden liver failure, and certain inherited liver conditions, when the liver can no longer sustain health.
What happens
Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the diseased liver and implants the donor liver, connecting blood vessels and bile ducts. It is major surgery lasting several hours.
Recovery
A hospital stay of one to a few weeks is usual, with close monitoring. Lifelong anti-rejection medicines are needed, and recovery of energy and strength continues over months.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include rejection, infection, bleeding, bile duct and blood vessel problems, and side effects of anti-rejection medicines. Careful assessment decides who is likely to benefit.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Liver Transplant: frequently asked questions
Can part of a liver be transplanted?
Yes. Because the liver can regenerate, a part from a living or deceased donor can be used and then grows to meet the body’s needs, which is one reason living-donor transplants are possible.
Why are lifelong medicines needed?
Anti-rejection (immunosuppressant) medicines prevent the immune system from attacking the new liver. They must be taken for life, with monitoring for infection and side effects.
Related
Other surgery
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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