Is life normal post-transplant for both recipient and donor?

Liver transplant infuses a new lease of life in persons with progressive liver failure. Liver transplants are being conducted in many centres across the world with very good results for the patient. It is also encouraging to note that both patients and donors can resume a normal life after liver transplant surgery. With some lifelong medications taken by the patient, they can also lead healthy lives dramatically improving their quality of life. It is interesting to note that Chris Klug, a US Olympian ski boarder, won a bronze medal at the Olympics in 2002 after his recovery from a liver transplant.

After a liver transplant procedure, the patient (recipient) is transferred to the Intensive Care Unit, where continuous monitoring is done during the immediate post-transplant period by specially trained staff for 3 -5 days. Then in the ward, once the recipient is recovered well and medications are optimized, the patient is discharged with instructions for continuing medications regularly to prevent the body from rejecting the donor’s new healthy liver.

After a liver transplant, it is crucial to receive treatment from a reputable liver hospital and a skilled liver transplant surgeon. In Hyderabad, India, there are several renowned hospitals known for their expertise in liver transplantation. Liver Surgeons have extensive experience in performing liver transplant surgeries and liver transplantation procedures.

Soon after the transplant, the recipient is encouraged to walk as much as possible Upon discharge, gentle exercise as recommended by the hospital should be followed for six months after which an active lifestyle is advocated. If there are no other health conditions to restrict the recipient, all normal activities as before the transplant can be carried out. Walking, bicycling, swimming, low-impact strength training and other physical activities enjoyed earlier can all be a part of a healthy, active lifestyle after transplant.

• Driving may be avoided for 3 months after the operation, for the abdomen to recover.
• Getting back to work will depend on whether any complications are present and the overall progress after surgery. Many return to work around 2 months after the transplant.
• Sexual activity can be resumed as early as 3 months. Women will find that their menstrual cycle is disrupted, returning to normal in two to eight months. It is possible to get pregnant after liver transplant surgery. Ideally, it is better 12 months after the operation before trying to get pregnant.

After the liver transplant, the donor will stay in the hospital for 7 days for recuperating. Another 3-4 weeks of rest is required at home. Work can be resumed by 4 weeks post-surgery. Physical exercise should be avoided for at least 6 weeks after the surgery; heavy physical activity, sports including lifting weights can be resumed 3 months after surgery. There are no dietary or any other restrictions and most donors can lead a completely normal life with normal liver function. There is no risk for long-term consequences of the surgery as the donated portion of the liver can regenerate into its normal volume in 3 weeks time after surgery. This allows the donor also to resume all normal activities that the donor was used to prior to liver donation. The donor is also capable of returning back to work 4 weeks after surgery maintaining a normal work schedule even if it involves traveling. Sexual activity can be resumed as soon as the donor feels well enough.

Both patients and donors can lead a normal life after liver transplant surgery.

Book an appointment with some of the best hepatologist in Hyderabad at Gleneagles Global Hospital, Lakdi-ka-pul

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