The liver provides vital functions the body depends on to be healthy. Last time you were here, we talked about the ways a liver can fail. Our physicians at Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida perform liver transplant evaluations.
Review:
Previously, we discussed the two different options for people in need of a liver transplant. There is a living donor option. There is also the option of getting a deceased-donor liver.
We acknowledge is sounds frightening either way. In a case which uses a living donor, a segment of a living person’s liver is surgically removed for the person in need. The liver has the ability to reach its original size over time.
Deceased donor liver transplants are far more common. Of course, as any other surgery involves risks, do your own research. Discuss your worries and concerns with your surgeon if a liver transplant is needed.
As with all transplants, the human body can reject transplants even if the liver is healthy. The new liver may also fail just as the older one did before the surgery. But first, let’s discuss how our physicians perform a liver transplant evaluation.
Liver transplant evaluation:
Evaluations are completely crucial for the future success of each transplant case. An evaluation allows doctors to determine that each patient is healthy enough for such an intense surgery. Each transplant has its own criteria each patient must meet.
Doctors must find any reason why a transplant may not be successful. They must determine if you have any medical conditions that may interfere of the success of the implant. Patients must be healthy enough to undergo surgery with anesthesia.
Plus, patients are required to talk a lifelong regimen of post-transplant medications. Furthermore, patients must be willing to adhere to doctors’ advice and guidelines. In order for patients to be eligible for a transplant, they must be willing and able to take medications as directions and follow the suggestions of the transplant team.
Testing and procedures required:
Multiple visits for updated laboratory testing are required for all patients seeking a liver transplant. These tests include urine and blood tests to asses the health of your organs. Of course, your failing liver is monitored during these tests as well.
Imaging testing are useful as they provide detailed images of your liver for doctors. You will be required to undergo heart testing. Your cardiovascular system must be properly functioning for surgery.
Of course, more simple monitoring such as routine health exams are used to evaluate a patient’s overall health. Dietitians often work with patients leading up to surgery to ensure the new liver will have its best probability of success. A dietitians can give recommendations regarding nutritional intake prior to transplant and post-transplant.
Certain foods such as red meat may be cut out of a patient’s diet. Alcohol is a big no-no for patients desiring a liver transplant. This is a big one!
All-around evaluations:
Psychological evaluations are used to determine any underlying issues. Doctors can then acknowledge them as well as reiterate the the risks of a liver transplant. A patient must fully comprehend its risks, and if a patient is not in a good mental state, they are not capable of doing so.
Depression and anxiety should be addressed. Meetings with social workers are also on the schedule for patients. These helpful individuals assess your support network to determine whether you have friends or family to be by your side during the surgery day and recovery.
Addition counseling may be a detrimental part of a patients healthy future. For those needing to quit smoking, drinking alcohol, or using any other drugs, addiction counseling saves lives. Financial counseling is magical for families feeling up to their necks in debt.
Patients can sit down and thoroughly discuss the cost of a transplant. Post transplant care is rather costly, and complications could wrack up further costs. Financial counselors should assist with determine what costs are covered by insurance and which fall into your lap.
Do not hesitate to make an appointment today. Take care of hour health, and see us soon! Stop by for more invaluable news next time.
Staff Writer