Liver transplantation is an accepted and successful therapy for patients suffering from severe liver disease. The number of liver transplants performed at Penn Medicine averages between 120 and 140 procedures a year, with about 10% being living donor liver transplants.
There are four major stages in the liver transplant process at Penn Medicine:
After reviewing the medical records and tests results from the local providers, the liver transplant team determines if a liver transplant evaluation is recommended. Our financial team reviews the insurance status of possible transplant candidates in order to facilitate coverage for transplant prior to scheduling an appointment.
While a liver transplant is a life-saving procedure, the decision to proceed with a liver transplant represents a strong commitment to self-care and medical follow-up, so the ultimate decision rests with the patient and their care team. Only the patient can evaluate their quality of life and determine whether or not a liver transplant is worth pursuing.
Learn more about each stage of the liver transplant process:
- Liver Transplant Evaluation
Living donor liver transplant will also be discussed, as applicable to each patient’s candidacy.
- Liver Transplant Wait List
If the patient is found to be a candidate for a liver transplant, their information will be entered into the national database overseen by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). Our team will continue to manage the patient’s liver disease while awaiting a transplant.
A living donor liver transplant can minimize the time a patient spends on the waiting list and in many case is clearly the best way to reduce the risk of health deterioration while waiting. Learn more about the Penn Transplant Institute’s Living Donor Liver Transplant Program.
- Living Transplant Surgery
If a liver becomes available for transplant, the patient will be notified by the Penn Transplant team and will be prepared for surgery. Anesthesia and surgery time is approximately 6 to 10 hours, and most patients can expect to be in the hospital, on average 7-10 days. This varies with each patient, based on their clinical course.
- Post-Transplant Follow-Up
The Penn Transplant Institute team discusses what to expect after liver transplant surgery and provides information you need to recover. Follow up includes post-operative visits, blood work, and medication adherence.
-
The Penn Transplant Institute team provides a comprehensive evaluation to determine if you are a candidate for a liver transplant. Other medical alternatives may be discussed at the time of visit.
-
If you are found to be a candidate for a liver transplant, your information will be entered in the national organ donor database. Our team will help manage your liver disease while you await transplant.
-
If a liver becomes available for transplant, you will be notified by the Penn Transplant team and will be prepared for surgery. Anesthesia and surgery time is approximately 6 to 10 hours, and most patients can expect to be in the hospital about 7 to 10 days.
-
The Penn Transplant Institute team discusses what to expect after liver transplant surgery and provides information you need to recover.