Liver transplantation: an update for physicians

End-stage irreversible liver disease, previously treated only by partially-effective, symptomatic measures, can now be reversed by successful liver transplantation at reasonable cost and with comparatively little increase in resources. Three Australian liver transplant programs are now established with results comparable to those of more experienced overseas centres. New organ-preservation techniques and reduced-size orthotopic transplantation in children should significantly increase donor organ availability. Orthotopic liver transplantation should be considered as a therapeutic option once a patient has been diagnosed as suffering from intractable, non-malignant chronic liver disease.