Facts about Liver Transplant - Everything you Need to Know

One of the largest abdominal organs in the human body is the Liver. That being said it has various functions. And plays an equally important part to make the smooth function of the digestion process. It consumes more than 1.5 percent of the body's weight and weighs up to an average weight of about 1200 minimum to 1500 grams maximum.

Although the liver is a single organ, it is generally divided into the right and left sections. Furthermore, it consists of eight separate sub-segments each having its own blood supply and biliary drainage systems.

Bile is produced by the liver and released by the biliary tree. The gall bladder, which is located at the bottom of the liver and is connected by the bile duct, serves as bile storage. It controls the amount of bile entering the intestines. The liver has an exceptional ability to regenerate after being divided into pieces. Therefore, this serves as the foundation for liver transplants if it fails to function normally.

Let us know what are the Functions of Liver

The liver is situated towards the right upper abdomen and performs a pool of tasks, which includes protein synthesis and the detoxification of toxins sent by the intestines. It is also responsible for regulating metabolism. That includes the breakdown of a series of chemical reactions and synthesis along with the production of energy.

Most importantly, food is converted into the chemicals required for the growth of cells in the human body. In addition drugs, alcohol, and other potentially dangerous compounds produced by the body are eliminated by the liver.

The liver secretes substances required for dietary fat and vitamin absorption. Similarly, proteins that are required for healthy blood coagulation and muscle growth are produced by the liver as well. It also keeps hormonal levels in check and helps to preserve vital vitamins.

What is liver transplantation? Why is there a need for a liver transplant?

A liver transplant involves taking the entire or a portion of the liver from a deceased or living donor, replacing it in the patient body, and then connecting it to the bile duct.

Without a functioning liver, you cannot survive. You may require a liver transplant if your liver no longer functions properly. Similarly, if the liver diseases have reached their last stages, a liver transplant is advised. This liver condition is severe and potentially fatal.

There are numerous causes leading to liver failure

The most common cause of advanced liver disease is cirrhosis. It affects the healthy liver by a forming scar tissue. This prevents the liver from operating normally.

The following illnesses also have a chance of causing end-stage liver disease.

Other diseases that may lead to the end-stage liver disease include:

Acute hepatic necrosis - This occurs possibly cause of acute infections and reactions to medicine, drugs, or toxins.

Biliary Atresia - This is a rare disease wherein there is a restriction in the channels that supply bile from the liver to the gallbladder. Perhaps when the liver does not grow normally, which results in congenital disease. Biliary Atresia is mostly seen in newborns.

Viral hepatitis - Hepatitis is caused by a latent infection that damages and inflames the liver. Furthermore, it can be caused by a number of viruses, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A and E viruses can result in severe illnesses. Chronic and acute infections result in the hepatitis B, C, and D viruses.

Irregular Metabolic activities- The improper functions of the liver can lead to disorders that change the chemical activity in cells affected by the liver.

Liver cancers - These occur when there are formation of cancerous tumors liver which interrupts the smooth functioning of the organ.

Autoimmune hepatitis - When your immune system, which defends your body against illness, targets your liver, which results in redness and swelling.

What is the risk of a Live Transplantation?

As we already know that the liver regenerates on its own. It almost takes up to 8 weeks to fully recover post the surgery. However, it depends on each case. But the major risks of liver transplants are infection and rejection.

Rejection happens when the new liver is attacked by the immune system as it is not acceptable for a new transplant. The immune feels like some foreign harmful substance is entering the body. Patients undergoing transplants must take immune-suppressing medications to prevent rejection. However, liver transplant recipients have a tougher time fending off other infections since their immune systems is affected. It is treated with some alternative medications.

Reduce your risk for a healthy transplant!

Global Hospitals based in Mumbai is one of the most trusted and reputed for our successful medical history. Especially, the department of liver transplant has made sure the risk of liver transplant post-surgery is reduced. Here, you'll be given the best attention and treatment. All of our technological developments are only designed to assist liver transplants and our patients. We are regarded as one of the top hospitals for liver transplant surgery in Mumbai because of the combined effort of training and patient safety for the transplantation of the liver.

Conclusion

In order to safeguard your liver, have a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet. It is best to limit junk food and exercise regularly for the smooth functioning of all organs. However, to take care and eliminate any uncertainty regarding medical treatment Visit our hospital to get the best treatment and consultations.