How many years one survives after a liver transplant?

The number of years one will survive after a liver transplant depends on a variety of factors. According to a 2019 study published in the American Journal of Transplantation, the overall 5-year survival rate for adults who underwent deceased donor liver transplants was reported to be 70%.

The research also found that individuals aged 1 – 17 had an especially high 5-year median survival rate at 95%. Those 18 and over, however, had slightly lower rates ranging from 69% to 75%, depending on the cause of their underlying end-stage liver disease.

Factors that may influence long-term success with a liver transplant include age and general health when going through surgery, quality and function of the donor’s organ, nutritional status postoperatively, compliance with immunosuppressant medication regimens following transplantation, as well as adherence to postoperative follow up care.

It is important for those considering or undergoing a liver transplant procedure to speak directly with their physician about any questions or concerns they have regarding potential long-term outcomes following their surgery. With proper care and maintenance postoperatively, many recipients are able to lead healthy lives for many years after their initial operation date.