Liver transplant medicine focuses on the comprehensive care of patients undergoing liver transplantation, covering pre-, peri-, and post-transplant management through a multidisciplinary team approach.
The liver transplant team typically includes transplant surgeons, hepatologists, critical care specialists, interventional radiologists, and supporting services like microbiology and pathology.
The pre-transplant evaluation assesses the patient’s overall health, identifies complications of chronic liver disease, and determines if the transplant is necessary and safe for the patient.
Bridging techniques, such as TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt), are procedures used to manage complications like increased liver pressure and to prepare patients for transplantation.
Prior to transplantation, the focus is on medical management, while perioperatively, the emphasis shifts to surgical management. After three months, the responsibility reverts back to medical management.
A multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of liver health, improving patient outcomes and facilitating collaborative decision-making throughout the transplant process.
Complications include increased liver pressure, fluid retention, hepatic encephalopathy, and impacts on other organs like the kidneys and heart, which are managed to optimize the patient’s condition for transplant.
Long-term follow-up is crucial for monitoring liver health, managing immunosuppressive therapy, preventing infections, and addressing complications that may arise post-transplant.
Patients receive regular monitoring and prompt treatment for infections, alongside management of diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol to ensure optimal recovery and long-term success.
Anti-rejection medications are vital for preventing the immune system from attacking the transplanted liver, and their proper management is essential for the success of the transplant.
Patients can prepare by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing existing health conditions, attending all pre-transplant appointments, and following their healthcare team’s recommendations.
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