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What to Expect at the Hospital
After admission, the patient receives a physical examination and additional testing. Preoperative procedures may include:
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An enema to clean out the intestines and prevent constipation after surgery.
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Shaving the chest and abdomen.
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Inserting an intravenous (IV) line to administer fluids and medications.
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A sedative to help the patient relax before the operation.
The Surgical Procedure
The average operating time for a liver transplantation is seven to eight hours. The patient is under general anesthesia throughout the surgery. The abdomen is opened by an incision made under the ribs and the diseased liver is removed. The new organ is then inserted into the abdomen and connected to the main vessels, which include the vena cava, the hepatic artery, the portal vein and the bile duct. An initial dose of anti-rejection medication is administered and the abdomen is closed.
Center for Transplantation
Hillcrest Medical Offices South
4168 Front St., Second Floor
San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 574-8612
Fax:(619) 296-1852 |