Liver transplants

[RonShirt]

I was talking to a friend of mine about my liver problems and she thought that I may be too old (I'm nearly 72) for a liver transplant - is this correct?

Thanks,

Ron

[AyrshireK]

72 is no age at all in today's terms and many over 70's are still very fit and active.

The Liver Transplant Unit at Edinburgh says the following in their assessment protocols:-

"Advanced age is a relative contraindication to transplantation, and in such patients particular attention should be paid to an overall assessment of their general health."

"Relative contraindications include: Age > 65 years, previous major upper abdominal surgery, portal vein thrombosis, diabetes mellitus with complications, and moderate cardiac, respiratory or renal dysfunction not related to the underlying liver disease. Previous alcohol or substance abuse and poor social circumstances are also relative contraindications."

They obviously don't have a hard and fast age cut off but judge each case as an individual. There was a 71 year old chap being assessed for transplant at the same time as my hubby was.

Obviously with older age comes more likely hood of other illnesses being present and some centre's do seem to adopt an age cut off, however, with peoples longer life expectancy and over all better health into older age then they have to judge each individual case.

Katie

[Beture47]

Had my transplant 1 month before my 69th birthday

If you can pass the assessment and have a good attitude you will be offer avtansplant

Good luck

E

[Catfriend]

Hello Ron, I've had my liver transplant in November 2018 at age 73! According to my LT team, I am recuperating far better than average. Sure, there are ups and downs, but that's normal. I'd say, if you are in good physical and mental health and transplant is an option for you - go for it!

[alfredthegreat]

Hi Ron. I was 68 and 8 months when I had my liver transplant. I was muscle wasted and not in good shape. I had diabetes type 2 for over 20 years. I also have an irregular heartbeat and have had for some 30 years. I had cirrhosis and HCC. I am now 10 months post transplant and my new liver is functioning brilliantly and I feel really well for the first time in years. I am also now in remission for diabetes. At assessment their main concerns are 1) Are you ill enough to need a transplant? 2) Are you well enough to survive a transplant? If my health and appearance at assessment are anything to go by, then I would say it should give hope to many. Wishing you all the very best. Alf P.S. You can also add asthma to my list of problems at assessment.

[AyrshireK]

Just met a lovely lady at BLT support group - transplanted at 72 in Edinburgh and now 8 months on and doing great.