Liver transplantation involves removing the diseased liver and replacing it with a healthy liver, either a whole liver from a deceased donor or a portion of a liver from a living donor. This procedure is a critical treatment option for patients with advanced stages of various liver diseases. Types of liver transplantation include:
- Deceased donor liver transplantation: The liver is obtained from a person who has been declared brain dead and whose family has consented to organ donation.
- Living donor liver transplantation: A portion of the liver is removed from a living person (often a close relative of the patient) and transplanted into the patient. The liver has the ability to regenerate, allowing both the donor and the recipient to regain normal liver function over time.
Liver transplantation is a complex procedure that requires a specialized medical team and careful care before, during, and after surgery to ensure the best possible outcomes for the patient.