[Liver transplantation as curative therapy]

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Surgical Innovation
• Medical History

Context:

• Review of over 30 years of liver transplantation history.
• Impact of international consensus meetings (Washington 1983, Paris 1993) on establishing transplantation as a standard therapy.
• Establishment and success of a liver transplantation program in Hungary.

Purpose:

• To review the historical development and milestones of liver transplantation.
• To emphasize the curative potential of liver transplantation for end-stage liver disease.
• To highlight the critical factors for successful liver transplantation programs.

Summary:

• Liver transplantation has progressed significantly over three decades, becoming a definitive treatment for intractable progressive liver diseases.
• International consensus has solidified its role, leading to successful program implementation, such as in Hungary.
• Multidisciplinary cooperation, health policy, and societal support are crucial for program success.

Impact:

• Liver transplantation offers a curative option for patients with advanced liver disease, improving survival and quality of life.
• The success of transplantation programs relies on integrated healthcare approaches and robust public and policy backing.
• This review provides insights into the evolution and requirements for effective liver transplantation services.