Life After Liver Transplant

A healthy liver performs more than 500 vital roles that include filtering blood and helping digestion, making it one of the most important organs of the human body. Any damage to the liver will hamper all these vital functions of the body, leading to serious trouble. In some cases, these issues are diagnosed only after your liver tissues have been severely damaged. The only cure for end-stage liver diseases is a liver transplant.

Due to advancements in technology and healthcare facilities, most transplant centers offer over 95% success rate of liver transplants today. This means that 95 out of every 100 patients are saved after a liver transplant in India.

Post-transplant Recovery

After the liver transplant surgery, most patients:

• Are required to stay in the ICU for 3-5 days, depending on their condition.
• Get discharged within 2-3 weeks.
• Resume normal activities in 3-6 months.

However, liver transplant surgery may lead to complications for some patients.

Risks Associated with Liver Transplant

The greatest risk associated with a liver transplant is transplant failure, wherein the donated liver may get rejected by your body or may fail. Sometimes the original disease may return. Some other possible problems that may occur include infections, bleeding, and blood clots. To avoid these complications, patients are provided with precautions, nutritional guidance, and the necessary dos and don’ts for effective recovery.

Precautions After Liver Transplant

• Strictly abide by the follow-up schedule given by your doctor
• Comply with prescribed medications in time to help your new liver survive successfully
• Be aware of the uses and side effects of all your medications
• Liver transplant surgery makes you more prone to infections so practice adequate measures like washing your hands frequently, avoiding unhealthy food, visiting the doctor immediately in case of fever
• Alcohol consumption and smoking are a big ‘NO’
• Avoid pregnancy until one year after the transplant
• It is recommended that you practice going on a 45 min walk every day

You can lead a normal life post-recovery, getting indulged in daily chores, physical activity, and even sports. But prescribed medications, doctor visits, and a disciplined medication are a ‘must’, at least for the first three years.

For more information on liver transplant, WhatsApp us on +91-9582546001