Liver transplant surgery is a life-saving procedure for patients with advanced liver disease when medical treatment is no longer effective. Conditions such as liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and certain liver cancers can severely affect quality of life and survival. With timely evaluation and expert surgical care, liver transplantation offers patients a second chance at a healthy, active life.

As a highly experienced Consultant GI & Liver Transplant Surgeon in Yerwada, Pune, Dr. Abhijit Jagdale provides comprehensive evaluation, advanced surgical expertise, and long-term care for patients undergoing liver transplantation.

 


Doctor’s Perspective

“Liver transplant surgery is not just about replacing an organ—it’s about restoring life, strength, and hope. With the right timing, meticulous surgery, and lifelong follow-up, patients can lead fulfilling, productive lives after transplant.” – Dr. Abhijit Jagdale


Understanding Liver Transplant Surgery

A liver transplant involves replacing a diseased or failing liver with a healthy liver from a donor. The donor liver may come from a deceased donor or a living donor, where a portion of the liver is transplanted. The liver’s unique ability to regenerate allows both donor and recipient livers to grow back to normal size over time.

Liver transplant is considered when liver damage becomes irreversible and threatens survival.


Indications: When Is Liver Transplant Surgery Needed?

Liver transplant surgery is recommended for patients with end-stage liver disease or acute liver failure. Common indications include:

  • Liver cirrhosis due to hepatitis B or C

  • Alcohol-related liver disease

  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH)

  • Acute liver failure

  • Primary biliary cholangitis or primary sclerosing cholangitis

  • Genetic liver disorders

  • Selected cases of liver cancer (Hepatocellular carcinoma)

Symptoms that may signal advanced liver disease include persistent fatigue, jaundice, abdominal swelling, bleeding tendencies, confusion, and unexplained weight loss.

Early referral to a liver transplant specialist in Pune is crucial for timely intervention.


The Liver Transplant Procedure: What to Expect

Pre-Transplant Evaluation

A detailed assessment is performed to confirm transplant eligibility. This includes blood tests, imaging, heart and lung evaluation, and nutritional and psychological assessment.

During the Surgery

The diseased liver is carefully removed and replaced with a healthy donor liver. The procedure typically takes several hours and requires a highly specialized surgical team.

Post-Surgery Care

After surgery, patients are monitored in intensive care, followed by a gradual recovery phase with close medical supervision.


Life After Liver Transplant

Life after liver transplant can be fulfilling with proper care and lifestyle adjustments. Most patients experience significant improvement in energy levels, appetite, and overall health.

Key aspects of post-transplant life include:

  • Lifelong immunosuppressive medications to prevent rejection

  • Regular follow-up with liver transplant specialists

  • Balanced diet and healthy lifestyle

  • Avoiding alcohol and harmful substances

  • Gradual return to work and daily activities

With adherence to medical advice, many patients lead long, healthy lives after transplant.


Benefits of Liver Transplant Surgery

  • Restores normal liver function

  • Improves survival and quality of life

  • Relieves symptoms of chronic liver disease

  • Enables return to normal daily activities

  • Provides long-term disease control

Under the care of Dr. Abhijit Jagdale in Yerwada, Pune, patients receive individualized treatment plans and long-term support to ensure optimal outcomes.


FAQs

1. How long does a liver transplant last?

With proper care and medication adherence, a transplanted liver can function well for many decades.

2. Is liver transplant surgery safe?

Yes. With modern surgical techniques and experienced transplant teams, liver transplantation has high success rates.

3. Can a person live a normal life after liver transplant?

Yes. Most patients return to normal activities, including work and travel, within a few months.

4. Will I need medicines for life after transplant?

Yes. Immunosuppressive medications are required lifelong to prevent organ rejection.

5. When should I consult a liver transplant surgeon?

If you have advanced liver disease, worsening symptoms, or complications of cirrhosis, early consultation is essential.

 


About Dr. Abhijit Jagdale

Dr. Abhijit Jagdale is a renowned Consultant GI & Liver Transplant Surgeon based in Yerwada, Pune. He specializes in complex liver surgeries, liver transplantation, and advanced gastrointestinal surgical care. Known for his patient-centric approach and clinical excellence, Dr. Jagdale is dedicated to delivering safe, ethical, and evidence-based care to patients with liver disease.

 

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Disclaimer: The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. The information is provided solely for educational purpose and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice.