Live donor liver transplantation has become an increasingly common alternative around the world, allowing people to donate a significant part of the organ to save the lives of relatives. This procedure, which has shown safe results, could be a solution to the shortage of organs available for transplantation.
According to Dr. Luiz Augusto Carneiro D’Albuquerque, professor of Liver Transplants at the USP Faculty of Medicineit is possible to donate up to 70% of the liver, depending on the age of the donor and the amount needed by the recipient.
“The procedure is considered safe and is carried out simultaneously, with the removal of part of the liver from a donor, usually a relative up to the fourth degree, for implantation in the patient who needs the organ”, explains the specialist.
The doctor highlights that in the East, such as Japan, China, Korea, and in Middle Eastern nations, there is a predominance of donations between relatives.
In Brazil, around 15% of liver transplants are performed with living donors. According to Dr. Carneiro, Brazil has the structure and results that would allow it to increase the number of live transplants in the country.
The importance of organ donation
In Brazil, the number of donors is still far below ideal, which is attributed to cultural factors. Doctors emphasize the need to increase awareness about organ donation.
“To become a donor, simply express your desire to family and friends. This makes the process simple and does not involve bureaucracy”, explains Kalil.
Timing is essential for transplant success
A crucial factor in the success of transplants is the correct time to perform the procedure. The USP professor highlights that there is a phase in which the results are excellent, close to 100% success, but when the transplant is carried out late, the results may be inferior.
“The appropriate timing for indicating and carrying out the transplant is considered the most important point in the process, as it guarantees a better outcome for the patient, with a more favorable post-operative period and earlier hospital discharge”, concludes the specialist.
