Quality of life before and after orthotopic hepatic transplantation

Article Abstract:

In a number of disease states affecting the liver, including alcoholic and nonalcoholic cirrhosis, hepatitis B and C, exposure to toxic chemicals, and others, the only therapeutic strategy that will save the patient's life is orthotopic hepatic transplantation, or receiving a liver from another person. As surgical techniques for liver transplantation improve, the survival rate continues to climb; currently about 75 percent of liver transplant patients are alive one year following surgery. However, little is known about the effect of liver transplantation on the elusive construct known as quality of life, which encompasses general physical and mental health as well as psychosocial adjustment. Most studies investigating the effect of organ transplant on quality of life have involved heart or kidney transplant patients. To quantitatively characterize the effect of orthotopic liver transplantation on quality of life, a study was carried out in which 53 nonalcoholic liver transplant patients were evaluated prior to surgery and three years afterwards. Quality of life was assessed using two standardized scales, the Sickness Impact Profile and the Social Behavior Adjustment Schedule. On the Social Behavior Adjustment Schedule, patients showed a significant test-retest improvement on scales measuring social role performance, disturbed behavior, and burden. On 8 of the 12 scales measured by the Sickness Impact Profile, liver transplant patients showed a statistically significant (but clinically insignificant) impairment compared with healthy controls; there was significant improvement on all scales with the exception of work capacity. Hence, liver transplant is associated with a dramatic improvement in the quality of life; however, patients do not fully recover to the level of function of healthy individuals. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Health aspects, Social aspects, Research, Liver, Quality of life, Liver transplantation

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A second chance

Article Abstract:

Research conducted amongst 30 heart transplant patients revealed the stresses which patients and their families experience. The length of time spent waiting for the receipt of a suitable new heart varies, but patients and relatives undergo a range of emotions, including guilt and anger, during this period. Patients feel fear and excitement when they hear that the operation can proceed, and partners experience a range of emotions as they wait to hear if the operation has been successful. Leaving the security of the hospital after the operation is another stressful time.

Cover Story, Organ transplant recipients, Heart, Heart transplantation

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