Liver transplant is often seen as a final option, but in reality, it’s a planned, life-saving procedure that can significantly improve survival and quality of life for the right patient. For those living with chronic liver disease, timely referral and careful evaluation can make all the difference.
The liver is a vital organ that performs hundreds of functions including detoxification, protein synthesis, and bile production. When the liver is severely damaged, usually due to cirrhosis or long-standing disease, a transplant may be the only effective solution.
Timing is critical. The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score is used to assess disease severity and predict survival. A higher score usually means greater urgency for transplant. However, a patient with lower MELD but severe symptoms like fluid buildup (ascites), jaundice, or encephalopathy may also be a candidate.
Early consultation allows:
There are two main types:
After evaluation, patients are placed on a transplant list or prepared for LDLT. Surgery takes 6–12 hours followed by close monitoring in the ICU. Recovery can take several weeks, and long-term medications are required to prevent rejection.
Liver transplant is not just about surgery—it’s about giving patients a second chance at life. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with advanced liver disease, don’t wait. Early evaluation can be life-saving.