All patients with liver cirrhosis and estimated life span under 1 year should be evaluated.Success rate of the surgery is directly proportional to the preoperative health status of the patient, who is decided to undergo a transplant surgery.Hence, the key point is to achieve good results with a transplant performed at the correct time.The success rate increases up to 80% in elective surgeries that are scheduled in advance and allow a detailed preoperative evaluation.
Evaluation of a liver transplant candidate usually lasts for 5-7 days.Heart, lungs and kidneys are assessed through detailed blood tests and radiology studies to determine if the patient can tolerate the transplant surgery.Other than the medical assessment, the patient and the family are informed regarding the surgery, hospital stay, possible postoperative course, follow-up and post-convalescence care, after approval of a psychiatrist is obtained.