[Liver transplantation: who should have it and when?]

Abstract

Liver transplantation is an effective treatment for both acute and chronic liver disease. Liver transplantation should be considered in cases of liver disease complicated by severe hepatocellular insufficiency or severe portal hypertension for which there is no other effective treatment. To optimize conditions for the transplantation, it must be offered at the right point in the disease course. The evaluation of potential transplant recipients is a key stage for assessing contraindications and comorbidities, some of which may be potential indications for a combined transplantation. Overall survival at 5 years is 73% for all indications combined.