If there are questions we have left unanswered, we encourage you to contact the Transplant Office at 312.695.8900 at any time. Many illnesses damage liver function. In some cases, the liver can repair itself through a process called regeneration. However, if too many liver cells are destroyed, the regeneration process cannot repair enough cells to restore normal function. Because of the liver's many life-sustaining functions, a person cannot live when the liver is completely destroyed.
Liver transplant is indicated for many types of liver disease.
These diseases fall into four categories. Some liver diseases and some of the complications of liver diseases can be effectively treated with medications. However, for many patients, medical treatment is a temporary solution and transplant is the best option for long term recovery. The Northwestern Memorial Transplant Team will work with you and your family in carefully evaluating all aspects of your situation to determine if transplant is the best option for you. Liver transplantation is complex surgery which will affect all aspects of your life.