Living Donor Liver Transplants
It is possible to get a liver transplant from a living donor. UR Medicine is the only living donor liver transplant center in upstate New York.
Living donor transplants are a lifesaving treatment option, because they usually shorten the length of time that a recipient has to wait to get their transplant.
With living donor transplants, a family member or close friend can donate their organ to their sick loved one. The live donor needs to be extremely healthy, as well as a good match for the recipient.
In the case of living donor liver transplants, a portion of the healthy person’s liver is removed and placed in the recipient’s body. Soon, the healthy person’s liver regenerates and returns to normal size.
Liver Cancer Transplants: A New Treatment Option
UR Medicine offers liver transplants to patients who have liver cancer. We are one of the first centers in the country to give this option to patients.
If you have liver cancer that meets certain criteria, you may be eligible for a liver transplant, even if you do not have liver failure.
This is a lifesaving option for patients with liver cancer. It gives patients a better chance at beating their cancer, ultimately giving them a second chance at life.
Son-in-law Provides Second Chance at Life for Lima Native in Need of Transplant
Livingston County native John O’Grady had already endured decades of illness caused by liver disease when a call from his doctor drastically changed his future. An MRI scan showed liver cancer.
John was added to the transplant waiting list. The Solid Organ Transplant team also strongly suggested the 63-year-old consider finding a living donor. The option allows a recipient to undergo a transplant earlier.
Although all four of John’s adult children were willing to be tested, his son-in-law, Matthew Drake, spoke up.
“From my perspective, I was the best candidate,” Matt said. “My wife and I have two toddlers at home – then 3½ and 2 years old. As her husband, I didn’t want to see her go through surgery, with its potential risks, and be unavailable for the kids during her recovery. I wanted to take on the responsibility for everyone.”
Matt, 37, successfully donated a portion of his liver in August 2018, selflessly providing a second chance for John.
Going through the transplant process is not easy. But you’re not alone. At UR Medicine, we’re here to help. We invite you to meet with our team. We can give you advice, answer questions and tell you more about our transplant programs.