Resources

These videos were curated to guide patients, caregivers, and anyone interested in learning about liver transplantation. From the initial consideration of a transplant to post-operative care, each video in this series provides valuable insights and information to help you prepare for your liver transplant. Remember, we're here to support you every step of the way.

Your Liver Transplant Journey: Process Overview

For those embarking on the transplant journey, we offer a walkthrough of the liver transplant evaluation process. Our aim is to prepare you for what lies ahead, ensuring both your safety and the success of the transplantation. By understanding each step of the process, you can approach your journey with confidence and clarity. 

Liver Transplant Evaluation Process

Learn what to expect and how we determine whether transplantation is the right option for you. The transplant evaluation process at UC Health includes an initial team consultation, extensive medical tests including blood work and echocardiograms, and additional specialized screenings. A selection committee reviews your suitability for transplantation, discusses potential contraindications, and emphasizes the importance of donor-recipient compatibility and ongoing communication with our team. 

Understanding Living Donor Transplants

Learn how to create a support network, known as your 'Champion Team', to spread awareness about your need for a liver transplant. We provide resources like brochures, letters, and liver Champion bracelets to aid this effort.

Living organ donors are responsible for giving new life to thousands of patients every year, and people who direct their organs to donation after death are responsible for thousands more. UC Health’s dedicated living liver donor program supports both living donors and recipients throughout the transplant journey.

Pre-Liver Transplant Clinic Visit and Social Worker Support

Learn what to expect during a pre-transplant clinic visit, essential for anyone preparing for a liver transplant. We detail the role of the liver transplant team, the psychosocial assessment, and discussions about medical conditions, treatment adherence, and support systems. We also cover crucial post-transplant requirements to help ensure your safety and well-being, including 24/7 supervision and transportation for follow-up appointments, emphasizing the importance of connections with support organizations like the American Liver Foundation. 

Liver Transplant Surgery

Our comprehensive guide details your liver transplant surgery, including duration, surgical approach and post-transplant care. We also highlight the expected hospital stay and emphasize the vital role of your dedicated nurse coordinator in recovery and medication management.

Post-Liver Transplantation Plan of Care

From detailed care instructions to emotional support, learn what to expect during your post-transplant clinic visits, including the clinic visit schedule, the critical role of caregivers in the early weeks, medication management, monitoring for organ rejection, and laboratory tests. Your liver transplant care team empowers you to take an active role in your post-transplant care, promoting a successful recovery. 

Medication Management After Your Liver Transplant

Proper management of your medications post-transplantation is an important part of your transplant success. Your care team will prescribe medications following your transplant surgery, including immunosuppressants (anti-rejection medications), and provide instructions to you before you leave the hospital.