Is a liver transplant right for you?

In selected patients, a liver transplant offers the best chance of a longer and better quality of life

Key points

Having a liver transplant extends and improves life for most patients
It is not a cure. There are risks as well as benefits
Tests will be needed to see if you are able to have a liver transplant
Liver transplants are not suitable for all patients with end-stage liver disease

A liver transplant is a treatment option for some patients who have not been helped by other medical therapies.

Every case is unique, but there are some steps all liver transplant patients need to go through.

If your doctor thinks you may be suitable for a liver transplant, they will arrange for you to have a series of tests.

Livers from deceased donors can be transplanted as a whole organ or split between two patients.

Not all patients with end-stage liver disease are suitable for liver transplantation.

Get answers to commonly asked liver transplant questions.

If you’re considering a liver transplant, your first step is to talk to your liver doctor.

If you and your doctor agree a liver transplant may be a good treatment for you, they will arrange for you to have a series of tests.

End-stage liver disease is when your liver is damaged beyond repair due to chronic liver disease or acute liver failure.

The aim of a liver transplant is to extend and improve your life. But there are risks.

Rich's liver failed for unknown reasons. He was given 24 hours to live when he got the call for a liver transplant.

Staying healthy after a liver transplant

Writing to your donor's family

Risks from the donated liver