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Liver Transplantation

Referral and Evaluation

On the day of the initial transplant clinic appointment, the patient will meet with several members of the transplant team. Patients are asked to bring all  medications (including dosages) and any requested test results for this initial visit.  During the visit the patient will learn about the transplant evaluation process, the surgical procedure, possible complications, medications, and requirements for follow up care after transplant.

The following is a list of examinations that will be completed prior to consideration for liver transplantation:

  • Complete history and physical
  • Blood work
  • Chest X-Ray (Pulmonary Function Test if necessary)
  • Heart tests (age and history will determine the type of tests ordered )
  • Social work evaluation
  • MRI of the liver, abdominal organs and vessels.
  • Colonoscopy
  • Endoscopy
  • Mammogram and Pap smear for women
  • Dental Examination
  • PPD (test for exposure to TB)
  • Evaluation by a Neuropsychologist

Due to the known damage caused by alcohol and drugs, patients being considered for liver transplantation will have been free of alcohol and drug use for 6 months prior to evaluation. Frequently we will do blood and urine tests to determine if there is a presence of either alcohol or non-prescribed drugs. 

The patient will meet with one of our transplant hepatologists. This is an ideal time to ask specific questions. In particular, the patient may want to discuss the likelihood of recurrence of liver disease in the new organ, the challenges and rewards of living with a transplanted organ and other matters.

After the initial evaluation, transplant staff will schedule additional required testing. This may necessitate more than one trip back to the University of Virginia. (We will make every effort to coordinate these appointments to minimize the number of visits.)

When all testing is completed, the evaluation will be presented to the liver transplant team to determine if the patient is an appropriate candidate for transplant. Once that decision has been made, the patient and referring physician will be notified of the results by phone and in writing.