Overview
While the patient is recovering from surgery, the family should take advantage of the opportunity to learn about post-operative precautions, understand the testing and follow-up appointment schedule, become acquainted with medications, learn about symptoms and signs of potential problems, and understand the mechanism for contacting the liver transplant team around the clock in the event of an emergency.
Patients will receive a discharge report with specific testing instructions as well as a medication schedule to discuss with the transplant coordinator. Patients are also given a copy of the investigation chart as well as a blood sugar and blood pressure monitoring sheet to familiarize themselves with and learn how to fill out.
Following discharge, patients must undertake tests and attend the post-transplant clinic every 5-7 days. They should consequently remain in the area of the hospital for 4-6 weeks after release. The residence where the patient will stay after discharge should be well-prepared to reduce the risk of infection.
Infections prevention
The house should be thoroughly cleaned using disinfectants. The accommodation should be close to the hospital, with 24-hour transportation available. There should not be too many stairs, and the surrounding area should be neat and clean. Patients are encouraged to walk and avoid using a wheelchair. The number of visitors should be limited for a few weeks. Patients should avoid contact with sick people and report any illness, fever, flu, cold, persistent cough, pain in the abdomen, loose motions, transmissible infections, etc. Patients should avoid contact with any animal or bird. Patients are advised to wear a mask for the first three months and avoid crowded places.
Diet and Nutrition
Patients may have a decrease in appetite following surgery. The appetite gradually improves with time. However, a high-protein diet is necessary to promote wound healing and liver regeneration. If necessary, the dietitian will recommend dietary supplements. Patients who enjoy a specific style of meal or cuisine should consult with the dietician.
Activity and exercise
Patients are typically allowed to engage in active walking and everyday tasks such as bending and climbing stairs upon discharge. It is usual to suffer weakness and slight abdominal discomfort at the site of the procedure. Perform deep breathing exercises to expand the lungs and help cough out phlegm. Consult with transplant physiotherapists. Get enough rest and sleep. Avoid lifting heavy weights.
Medications
Patients are often administered 10-15 medications at discharge. Some of these could be injections. As patients make improvements, the number of medications decreases. After around a year, most individuals require only 1-2 anti-rejection medications in addition to those prescribed for pre-existing conditions. Patients and their families should become acquainted with the medications provided and ensure that the patients take the prescribed prescription.
Life after the transplant
Resuming life after transplant
Possible complications following a liver transplant
Before surgery, doctors and transplant team coordinators address different potential complications and hazards of transplantation, despite the fact that relatively few patients experience them. The majority of these issues are easily detected and addressed. Complications following liver transplants might arise early or late. Complications that patients may face include bleeding, main non-functions, thrombosis, bile leak, post-operative infections, and rejection.
Some individuals may develop complications a few months after surgery, including biliary stricture, high blood sugar (diabetes), high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol and weight gain, brittle bones (osteoporosis), cancer, and illness recurrence.
Conclusion
Recovering from a liver transplant is a transforming experience that demands dedication to medical care, lifestyle changes, and mental well-being. You can obtain a great quality of life and long-term health by following prescribed medications, eating a balanced food, developing positive behaviors, and being aware of potential issues. For additional information, please visit SHALBY Sanar International Hospitals.
Dr. Shailendra Lalwani, Director & Head of Department
Liver Transplant
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