What to Expect When Waiting for a Liver Transplant

If you or a loved one is waiting for a liver transplant, knowing what to expect may help reduce anxiety and better prepare you for the journey ahead. A liver transplant replaces a diseased liver with a healthy one from a donor. This can be life-saving for those suffering from serious liver conditions like nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

The liver transplant process

The liver transplant process begins with a referral to a transplant center, where you will undergo a thorough evaluation. This includes various tests and consultations to determine whether you are a good candidate for a liver transplant.¹

Once approved, you will be placed on the national transplant waiting list. In the United States, this waiting list is managed by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS).¹

How long might you wait for a liver transplant?

The wait time for a liver transplant varies. Wait times can range from several weeks to months, and possibly years. It depends on several factors, including:^1,2

• Your blood type and body size
• Your overall health
• The availability and distance of a donor match
• The severity of your liver disease (MELD score)

What does a MELD score mean?

People in need of a liver transplant are prioritized based on their MELD score. MELD stands for model for end-stage liver disease. An MELD score assesses the urgency of the transplant based on blood tests that measure:^1-3

• Kidney function
• Liver function
• Blood clotting time
• Sodium levels

Those with higher MELD scores are more critically ill and are placed higher on the transplant waiting list.^1-3

Reducing your wait time with a living liver donation

One way to potentially reduce your wait time is through a living liver donation. This option involves a healthy person donating a portion of their liver to you. The liver is unique because it can regenerate itself. This means that both the donor's and recipient's livers will grow back to full size over time.^1,2

Finding a living donor can greatly reduce your wait time and improve outcomes. Donors can be relatives, friends, or even charitable donors who match your blood type and are in excellent health. Discuss this option with your transplant team to understand the benefits and risks.^1,2

Be prepared in case you get the call

When a matching liver becomes available, your transplant coordinator will call you and ask you to come to the hospital immediately to prepare for surgery. When the call comes in that a liver is available, you need to act quickly.¹

Here are some steps to make sure you are prepared:^2,3

• Stay accessible – Keep your phone charged and with you at all times. Tell your family and friends about the importance of being reachable.
• Pack a hospital bag – Have a hospital bag ready with essentials such as comfortable clothing, toiletries, medicines, important medical documents, and contact information for your transplant team.
• Arrange for transportation – Plan how you will get to the hospital when you get the call. Have a backup plan in case of any transportation problems.
• Stay informed – Keep yourself informed about your condition and the transplant process. Ask your transplant team any questions you may have to feel more confident and prepared.

Take care of your health while you wait

While waiting for a liver transplant, maintain your overall health as much as possible. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy:^2-4

• Follow medical advice. Stick to your doctor's recommendations regarding medicines, diet, and lifestyle changes. Regular checkups and lab tests are essential to monitor your condition.
• Eat a balanced diet. Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit your intake of salty, fatty, and sugary foods.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Stay active. Engage in regular, moderate exercise, such as walking or swimming, to keep your body strong and improve your overall well-being. Always consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.