Who Really Needs a Liver Transplant? Myths Vs. Facts

Dr.Saurabh Singhal, 0 mins read

A liver transplant is a life-saving and life-modifying procedure for people suffering from end-stage liver disease or acute liver failure. However, numerous myths persist in society regarding this surgery, making it essential for us to dispel these misconceptions and help you make informed decisions for yourself.

Who Needs a Liver Transplant?

People who need a liver transplant typically have severe liver damage or failure due to conditions like:

• Cirrhosis: Often caused by alcohol abuse, unhealthy lifestyle, uncontrolled diabetes, and hepatitis B & C virus infection.
• Liver cancer: Particularly if the cancer is confined to the liver and meets specific criteria.
• Acute liver failure: Sudden loss of liver function due to drugs like acetaminophen overdose or viral hepatitis (hepatitis A, E, or dengue fever).

Common Myths Vs. Facts

Myth: Only alcoholics need liver transplants.

Fact: While alcohol-related liver disease is a common reason for transplant, several other conditions, like hepatitis, genetic disorders, or liver cancer, also need transplants.

Myth: Liver transplants are experimental and risky.

Fact: Liver transplants are well-established, life-saving procedures. They have been performed for many years with improving success rates (as high as 95-97% these days) due to advances in surgical techniques and immunosuppressive medications. 

Myth: Liver transplants are only for young people.

Fact: Transplants are considered based on medical need and overall health, not strictly age. Anyone, from children to young and older adults with end-stage liver disease, can undergo a liver transplant procedure.

Myth: Donor livers are always from deceased donors.

Fact: Living donor liver transplants are an option, where a portion of a healthy liver is transplanted from a living person to the recipient. This option is generally considered a better option because of its quick availability, better organ quality, and higher success rate. The best part is that it doesn’t even affect the living donor because the liver has a natural regeneration power.  

Takeaway!

Liver transplants are critical for individuals with severe liver disease. Dispelling myths helps in understanding the realities of liver transplantation. If you or someone you know is dealing with liver issues, consulting a liver specialist is essential for better treatment and outcome.