Liver transplantation
Liver transplantation
Liver transplantation (pronunciation: /ˈlɪvər ˌtrænsplɑːnˈteɪʃən/) is a surgical procedure performed to replace a diseased liver with a healthy liver from another person. The entire liver, or just a section, can be transplanted. This procedure is typically reserved for individuals who have significant complications due to end-stage chronic liver disease or in cases where sudden failure of a previously healthy liver occurs.
Etymology
The term "transplantation" comes from the Latin trans- (across) and plantare (to plant). The term "liver" is derived from the Old English lifer, which is related to the Old High German lebr, both of which mean "liver".
Procedure
The Liver transplantation procedure involves the removal of the recipient's diseased liver and the placement of the donor's liver. The blood vessels and bile ducts are then reconnected. The procedure can take up to 12 hours and requires a team of surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses.
Donor liver
The Donor liver can come from a living or deceased donor. A living donor can only donate a portion of their liver, which can regenerate and regain full function in both the donor and recipient. A deceased donor's liver can be split into two, providing a liver for two recipients.
Post-operative care
After the Liver transplantation procedure, the patient is monitored in the intensive care unit. Medications are given to prevent rejection of the new liver and to manage any pain or discomfort.
Complications
Possible Complications of liver transplantation include rejection of the new liver, infection, bleeding, and complications from the use of immunosuppressive medication.
Related terms
- Hepatology: The branch of medicine that incorporates the study of liver, gallbladder, biliary tree, and pancreas as well as management of their disorders.
- Hepatectomy: The surgical resection of the liver.
- Cirrhosis: A late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by many forms of liver diseases and conditions.
- Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver, commonly caused by a viral infection.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Liver transplantation
- Wikipedia's article - Liver transplantation
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