Liver transplant

Whether you’ve been diagnosed with cirrhosis, acute liver failure or liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) and need a transplant, we’re here to help you feel better, sooner. From your first appointment through post-transplant healing, our team of compassionate physicians, surgeons, nurses, social workers and staff will give you the personalized care you need.

What does the liver do?

Your liver acts as a filter for the blood that comes from your digestive, or GI, tract. Your liver also:

• Helps with digestion
• Turns food into energy
• Prevents infection
• Stores vital nutrients
• Makes proteins that help your blood clot

Depending on your treatment and personal history, your doctor will work with you to determine whether you’re a good candidate for a liver transplant.

What is a liver transplant?

During a liver transplant, your surgeon will replace your liver with a healthy donor liver.

Our team has been performing lifesaving transplants since 2006, helping people from Pennsylvania and surrounding regions — including New York and New Jersey. This means the best care is available right here where you live.

If your doctor determines that you need a liver transplant and are a good candidate, you’ll be placed on a waiting list until a donor liver becomes available.

You’ll work with a transplant coordinator who will help you and your family during the entire process. From getting you on the waiting list to monitoring your progress after you receive your new liver, we’re here to help you find a donor as soon as possible. Because we know how important it is to get back to your friends and family — and your everyday life.

Geisinger’s Liver Care Center

Our specialized Liver Care Center is devoted to treating liver disease, including liver tumors, with advanced expertise and a comprehensive range of services.

Our team of compassionate, skilled liver specialists come together to develop a personalized plan to best treat you. Your transplant team consists of:

• Transplant/liver surgeon: Your surgeon specializes in the evaluation of liver transplant patients and will perform your liver transplant.
• Transplant hepatologist: Your hepatologist works with you to help manage your liver disease before you receive your new liver.
• Transplant coordinator: Your transplant coordinator gets you on the list for a liver transplant and works with you and your family throughout the entire process.
• Transplant social worker: You’ll work with a transplant social worker who will provide support before, during and after your transplant. They’ll create a follow-up plan for care and help you with any needs, such as transportation to appointments and getting medications.
• Transplant pharmacist: Your transplant pharmacy team will assist you with your medication regimen before and after you receive your new liver.
• Nurse practitioner: Your transplant nurse practitioner will help you after your procedure and work with the team to ensure the best outcome for you.
• Transplant dietitian: You’ll work with a dietitian before and after your transplant to develop a diet plan that helps you feel your best.
  

We focus on the tests and treatments that are right for your needs, so you can focus on what matters most — getting better.