Ask a doctor - Should alcoholics be allowed liver transplants?

Q. Should alcoholics be allowed liver transplants?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Seconmedic Expert

The U.S. liver transplant system operates according to a strict set of ethical criteria, which are designed to ensure that livers go to those with the greatest need and most likely chance of success post-transplant. This means that alcoholics can be considered for liver transplants—but under very specific conditions.

Alcohol abuse is one of the leading causes of end-stage liver disease in the United States, so if an alcoholic is diagnosed with cirrhosis they will face many unique challenges when it comes to being approved for a transplant. Transplant centers must take into account many different factors before deciding whether or not an alcoholic should receive a new organ; this includes their overall health as well as their likelihood of maintaining abstinence from alcohol.

For some situations, one's sobriety would need to documented over several months before they can be deemed eligible for a liver transplant; other times intensive drug and/or psychosocial rehab might need to happen first (if available). In order for an alcoholic patient's name even appear on the patient waiting list in the United States, evidence has shown that abstaining from alcohol use for at least 6 months prior helps increase their chances—though this does not guarantee approval by any means since centers may require longer periods of sobriety than others depending on individual cases and circumstances.. Additionally, all possible recipients must demonstrate commitment and understanding to making lifestyle changes that do not involve drinking before entering onto the waiting list too.

Overall though, while alcoholism certainly presents unique challenges when it comes to being approved or considered eligible for liver transplants, if special requirements are met there’s no reason why those struggling with debilitating end-stage liver disease due to excessive drinking cannot pursue this option just like everyone else who needs help saving their life.