Liver transplant is a crucial surgical procedure that can save lives by replacing a diseased or failing liver with a healthy one from a donor. It's mainly used for treating end-stage liver disease, liver cirrhosis, acute liver failure, and certain types of liver cancer that can't be effectively treated with other methods.
The process can involve either a full liver transplant from a deceased donor or a partial liver transplant from a living donor, thanks to the liver's incredible ability to regenerate. Before being added to the transplant list, patients go through a thorough evaluation to make sure they’re good candidates for the surgery.
After the transplant, patients need to take immunosuppressive medications to help prevent their body from rejecting the new organ, along with regular medical check-ups and some lifestyle changes to help the transplanted liver thrive. Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques, better immunosuppressive treatments, and improved post-operative care, liver transplantation has greatly enhanced survival rates and the overall quality of life for those facing serious liver issues.