Home > Encyclopedia of Surgery > Liver Transplantation

Definition

Liver transplantation is a surgery that removes a diseased liver and replaces it with a healthy donor liver.

Purpose

A liver transplant is needed when the liver's function is reduced to the point that the life of the patient is threatened.

Demographics

Compared to whites, those with African-American, Asian, Pacific Islander, or Hispanic descent are three times more likely to suffer from end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Both children and adults can suffer from liver failure and require a transplant.

Patients with advanced heart and lung disease, who are human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive, and who abuse drugs and alcohol are poor candidates for liver transplantation. Their ability to...