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The Liver Center of Baylor College of Medicine
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Liver Center only see liver transplant patients?
No, in addition to liver transplants we offer highly specialized care for any type of liver disease.
Our services include:
- Hepatobiliary surgery
- Treatment of liver mass and liver cancer
- Treatment of chronic liver disease
- Treatment of hepatitis B and C
- Abdominal paracentesis
- Evaluation and treatment of all forms of liver abnormalities
For our liver transplant patients, we offer comprehensive services, from initial evaluation to post-transplant care and rehabilitation.
What other type of surgeries do you perform at The Liver Center?
Abdominal Tap
Colonoscopy
Liver Biopsy
Liver Resection
Pancreatic Islet Transplantation
Paracentesis
Can I request a specific physician when making an appointment?
The Liver Center works a little differently in that you cannot request a specific physician when making an appointment, in part because the physicians' inpatient rotations make it difficult to determine their availability in the clinic.
However, because our Liver Center physicians work as a team, with weekly conferences held to review and collaborate on individual cases, every patient benefits from the combined knowledge, experience and expertise of the entire team. In addition, each of our hepatologists is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in:
- Internal medicine
- Gastroenterology
- Hepatology and liver transplantation
What does the liver do and why do I need it?
The liver, located on the right side of the abdomen, is one of the largest and most important organs in your body. It stores vitamins, sugars, fats, and other nutrients from the food you eat for use later by your body. It also makes chemicals that your body needs to stay healthy, breaks down harmful substances like alcohol and other toxic (poisonous) chemicals, and removes waste products from your blood. The liver's main job is to filter the blood coming from the digestive tract, before passing it to the rest of the body.
Liver Transplants
What is a liver transplant and when is it necessary?
A liver transplant is an operation to remove a patient's diseased liver and replace it with a healthy liver. A liver transplant is necessary when liver functions are severely impaired or completely shut down, and the patient is likely to die because of liver failure. Many diseases can cause liver failure. The number one cause for liver transplantation in adults is cirrhosis, which is the death of liver cells. Cirrhosis may result from viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, steatohepatitis or biliary blockage.
What do I need to do before liver transplant surgery?
The first step is to be evaluated by one of our hepatologists (liver specialists) to determine if a liver transplant is right for you. The hepatologist will then refer you to a transplant coordinator who will guide you through the evaluation process and the steps required to become a transplant candidate and get on the transplant list.
Once you are on the transplant list, you will wait for a donor liver to become available. When a liver becomes available, your transplant coordinator will contact you and instruct you to report to the hospital.
Where do you perform liver transplant surgeries?
Liver transplant surgeries are performed at our affiliates, St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital, Texas Children's Hospital or The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, depending on the patient.
What happens on the day of surgery?
On the day of your surgery you will report to a pre-operative nursing unit, where you will put on a hospital gown. A nurse will review your chart and confirm that all paperwork is in order. You will be taken to a pre-operative holding area, where an anesthesiologist will start an IV. Before any medications are administered, your surgeon will verify your name and the type of procedure you are having. You will then be taken to the operating room for surgery.
What type of anesthesia is used?
A liver transplant is performed under a general anesthetic, which will keep you asleep during surgery.
What happens during surgery?
The surgeon will make an incision between the rib cage and extending down to the right and left of the rib cage. Your surgeon will then proceed to carefully remove the diseased liver and replace it with the healthy liver.
How long does the transplant take?
The surgery typically takes between 3 and 5 hours.
What happens after the surgery?
After surgery you will be taken to a post-operative or recovery unit, where a nurse will monitor your recovery. Your body functions will be monitored closely, and blood tests will be performed regularly. You will be given medications to prevent your body from rejecting your new liver. Most patients will need to take these medications for the remainder of their life. As you recover, the blood testing will be performed less frequently. You will be allowed to eat solid foods, and you will begin physical therapy to assist you in regaining muscle strength.
How long will I be in the hospital?
You will be in the hospital at least one week. The first few days following your surgery, you will be in an intensive care unit where you will be monitored continuously.
What happens after I leave the hospital?
You will be scheduled for monthly check-ups that will include blood tests and a visit with your doctor. Because your immune system will be impaired following surgery, you should take additional precautions to avoid infection. Report any illness to your doctor immediately.
What are the risks associated with a liver transplant?
As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, bleeding, or an adverse reaction to anesthesia. Your surgeon will inform you of the risks prior to surgery.
Will there be a scar?
You will have a scar extending from the middle of your rib cage down to the right and left sides.
When can I expect to return to work and/or normal activities?
Most patients can expect to return to work and normal activities within 3 to 6 months following a successful liver transplantation.
Hours & Phone Numbers
- Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
- To schedule an appointment, call 713.798.8355 or toll-free 1.877.64LIVER (645.4837)
Clinical Trials
- Are you interested in participating in clinical trials? Discuss opportunities with your physician.
I was very impressed with the interior of the building - it was the first time I had been here. I found your staff to be professional, courteous and friendly. When I went in for my scan, I appreciated how friendly my caregiver was, how she took the time to explain the procedure, and her skill at drawing blood. This place is first class.
