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November 25, 2009
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Liver Transplant (cont.)

How Are Candidates for Liver Transplant Determined?

Evaluations by specialists from a variety of fields are needed to determine if transplantation is appropriate. The evaluation includes a review of your medical history and a variety of tests. Many healthcare facilities offer an interdisciplinary approach to evaluate and to select candidates for liver transplantation. This interdisciplinary healthcare team may include the following professionals:

  • Liver specialist (hepatologist)
  • Transplant surgeons
  • Transplant coordinator, usually a registered nurse who specializes in the care of liver-transplant patients (his person will be your primary contact with the transplant team)
  • Social worker to discuss your support network of family and friends, employment history, and financial needs
  • Psychiatrist to help you deal with issues, such as anxiety and depression, which may accompany the liver transplantation
  • Anesthesiologist to discuss potential anesthesia risks
  • Chemical dependency specialist to aid those with history of alcohol or drug abuse
  • Financial counselor to act as a liaison between a patient and his or her insurance companies

Which Tests Are Required Before Getting a Liver Transplant?

You will need to bring all of your previous doctor records, X-rays, liver biopsy slides and a record of medications to your pre-evaluation. To complement and to update previous tests, some or all of the following diagnostic studies are generally performed during your evaluation. If specific problems are identified, additional tests may be ordered.

  • Computed tomography, which uses X-rays and a computer to generate pictures of the liver, showing its size and shape.
  • Doppler ultrasound to determine if the blood vessels to and from your liver are open.
  • Echocardiogram to help evaluate your heart.
  • Pulmonary function studies to determine your lungs' ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide.
  • Blood tests to determine blood type, clotting ability, and biochemical status of blood and to gauge liver function. AIDS testing and hepatitis screening are also included.


Next: How does the waiting list work? »

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