OmniGraf Liver

There have been many innovations that have improved the world of liver transplantation since the first liver transplant was performed by Dr. Thomas Starzl in the 1960’s. Solutions that improved organ storage and transportations, new immunosuppressant drugs, antiviral agents have all combined to raise the 1-year survival rate over 90% following a liver transplant. However, there is global consensus that one area of liver transplant is in desperate need of improvement, long term patient survival. Results for long term survival have not improved since the 1980’s.

Long term outcomes of liver transplant recipients have not improved significantly as recipients continue to succumb to complications of long-term immunosuppression. Malignancy, infections, cardiovascular disease, and renal insufficiency are all exacerbated by these drugs.

There is no debate, immunosuppressant drugs are necessary. Without them, it would have been out of the question to move the standard for one year survival all the way up to an impressive 93%. But, they’re toxic drugs that place a strain on the body. If there’s a finger to point when looking at the challenges facing liver transplant recipients and long term survival, the management of immunosuppression could be one area in need of improvement.