Liver conditions that may lead to the need for a transplant
Viral hepatitis B (HBV) - Hepatitis B is a virus that multiplies in the liver cells and it is thought that 2 billion people worldwide either have had the infection or are currently infected. If you have liver damage as a result of hepatitis B then you may eventually require a liver transplant.
Auto immune conditions - Auto-immune means that the body's natural defence mechanisms, known as the immune and inflammatory systems, which in normal conditions are vital for defending and repairing the body against injury and illness, is for some reason (usually genetic or viral induced) working incorrectly.
Haemochromatosis - a disorder where the trace element iron cannot be excreted properly and deposits build up in the organs causing organ failure.
Wilson disease - this occurs because of the body's incorrect breakdown and placement of copper with the result that deposits accumulate within the liver causing cell destruction.
A1 Antitrypsin deficiency occurs when there is a genetically induced lack of a specific protein, made by the liver, called alpha 1 Antitrypsin found in saliva, duodenal fluid, lung secretions, tears and spinal fluid.
Acute liver diseases - occur rapidly over a period of 0-26 weeks and are characterised by a quick deterioration in the condition of the liver that leads to symptoms of yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice) and a confusional state called Hepatic Encephalopathy.
Budd Chiari Syndrome (BCS) - an acute or chronic disorder where the hepatic veins become occluded and cause swelling of the liver (hepatomegaly) and formation of ascites with associated abdominal pain.
Liver cancer - tumours of the liver cells are called Hepatocellular Carcinomas or HCC's. They are curable only if surgically removed and in general are rare except in certain pre-existing liver conditions.
Download The Wellington's liver disase patient information sheets.
Liver transplantation surgery provided by The Wellington Hospital in the UK
There are two methods for getting a liver transplant.
Firstly there is the use of marginal grafts. This is where a liver from someone who has been pronounced brain stem dead donates his or her whole liver to be transplanted.
The second method of transplantation is by living donor. This is when a healthy family member over the age of 21, with the same blood group, donates a portion of their liver to the patient requiring transplantation. This has the benefit that the transplant surgery can be scheduled at an agreed date and time whilst the patient is still considered fit enough to travel and to undergo the operation.
World class liver transplant specialists at The Wellington Hospital in London
The Wellington Hospital in London is the largest independent hospital in the United Kingdom, with an international reputation for outstanding care in all areas of medicine, including liver and HPB treatments.
The Wellington's medical teams are led by Hepatologists and HPB surgeons at the top of their profession and are supported by the very latest medical technology including the most advanced diagnostic imaging equipment available today.
Arabic and international patients
HCA's International Patient Centre offers an advisory service and provides a one stop service for rapid appointments, urgent admissions and facilitates access to all hospitals and doctors for all Arabic and international patients.
The International Patient Center (IPC) was established to cater exclusively to the medical needs of foreign clients, including expatriates, tourists and patients from abroad, by providing the highest quality medical treatment and services.
To date, over one million patients from more than 127 countries have benefited from the excellent care of the IPC coordinators who are ready at all times to assist Arabic and overseas visitors in overcoming language and culture barriers during their visits to HCA's private hospitals in London.
Contact details
The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St Johns Wood
London
NW8 9LE
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7483 51748 (available 9am to 5pm UK time)
Email: wellington.webenquiries@hcahealthcare.co.uk
Web: www.thewellingtonliverunit.com
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