Types of Liver Transplant: What Bangladeshi Patients Should Know

Liver transplants can be a life-saving option for those facing severe liver disease, and understanding the types available is crucial for choosing the right path. 

For Bangladeshi patients and their families, seeking treatment in India brings added questions and considerations about this procedure. 

Did you know there are different types of liver transplant, each with its own benefits and risks?

Knowing the differences in transplant types can help make informed decisions and ease some of the stress around this journey. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the options, so you’re well-prepared for this critical step.

Overview of Liver Transplants

• A liver transplant is a critical surgery to replace a damaged liver with a healthy one from a donor, often the last resort for severe liver conditions like cirrhosis, liver cancer, or end-stage liver disease. 
• For Bangladeshi patients and families travelling to India for advanced treatment, understanding liver transplants' role in restoring health and quality of life is essential.
• Liver transplants aren’t one-size-fits-all; different types are available to suit specific needs. The choice depends on factors like the patient’s condition, donor availability, and urgency. 
• Some transplants use organs from deceased donors, while others involve a portion of the liver from a living donor. 
• Each option has its benefits and considerations, and understanding these helps patients make informed choices and feel more prepared for the journey ahead.

Main Types of Liver Transplant

Understanding the types of liver transplant available helps patients and families choose the most suitable option. Here’s a breakdown:

Orthotopic Liver Transplant (Cadaveric Donor)

• Involves replacing the entire diseased liver with a healthy liver from a recently deceased donor.
• Most common type of liver transplant, often chosen for patients with end-stage liver disease or acute liver failure.
• Ideal when a deceased donor liver is available and full organ replacement is necessary.

Living Donor Liver Transplant

• A healthy person donates a portion of their liver, which is transplanted into the patient.
• Both the donor's remaining liver and the transplanted portion in the recipient can regenerate to full size.
• Reduces waiting time and allows for planned surgeries, but requires careful consideration of risks for both donor and recipient.

Split Liver Transplant

• Involves dividing a single liver from a deceased donor into two parts, used for two patients, often an adult and a child.
• Maximises organ availability and increases the number of transplants possible.
• Especially beneficial for addressing organ shortages, ensuring more patients receive transplants.

Auxiliary Liver Transplantation

• A portion of a healthy liver is transplanted while the patient’s own liver remains in place.
• Allows the patient’s liver to potentially recover and regenerate over time.
• Suitable for cases where there’s a chance of liver recovery, providing temporary support, especially in conditions like certain metabolic liver diseases or acute liver failure.

Suitability of Each Transplant Type

Selecting the appropriate liver transplant type depends on several factors:

Liver Condition

The severity and nature of liver disease influence the choice. For instance, patients with acute liver failure may require immediate orthotopic transplants, while those with chronic conditions might consider living donor options.

Urgency

In critical situations, orthotopic transplants are often preferred due to the immediate availability of deceased donor organs. Living donor transplants can be scheduled, making them suitable for non-urgent cases.

Donor Availability

The scarcity of deceased donor organs can make living donor or split liver transplants more viable, especially for paediatric patients.

Specific Cases and Preferred Transplant Types

Liver transplantation is a critical procedure for patients with severe liver conditions. The type of transplant recommended depends on the specific condition and urgency. The table below summarises the preferred types for each scenario:

Why Choose Apollo Hospitals for Liver Transplant Options

Apollo Hospitals has extensive experience in performing all major types of liver transplant, including orthotopic, living donor, split liver, and auxiliary transplants. The program boasts a success rate of over 90%, providing hope to patients worldwide.

The liver transplant team at Apollo Hospitals comprises highly skilled surgeons, hepatologists, anaesthetists, and support staff, all dedicated to delivering exceptional care.

The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, such as laparoscopic Argon Beam Laser and Tissue Link, ensuring precise and effective procedures.

Recognising the unique needs of international patients, especially those from Bangladesh, Apollo Hospitals offers personalised care plans. 

Services include assistance with medical visas, travel arrangements, and language support, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience for patients and their families.