The UAB Liver Transplant Program is the only one in Alabama and one of only 20 nationally that averages 100 or more liver transplants annually . Launched in 1983 , the program has performed approximately 2,700 liver transplants – distinguishing it as one of the nation ’ s most experienced – and our outcomes consistently rank among the best in the United States .

ORGANS – LIVER

• The CTI has expanded organ access for patients through our Hepatitis C-positive > Hep C-negative program , which allows us to safely transplant organs from infected donors then cure the hepatitis C in the recipient with antiviral therapy . The CTI developed relevant protocols for all solid organs , applying them first with our kidney / pancreas and liver programs . This initiative has allowed more organs to be transplanted and is reducing wait times .

• In 2019 , the CTI instituted an alcoholic hepatitis transplant protocol that makes liver transplants available to patients who would have been declined in the past , and has already resulted in many lives saved . Rather than relying on a strict six-month sobriety requirement , as is the policy at most transplant centers , the CTI takes an individualized approach to the assessment of each patient and offers transplants to those believed to be at low risk for sustained relapse after transplant . Close collaboration with the UAB Addiction Medicine team has been a key factor in the success of the program , and it is somewhat unique even among centers that perform transplants for acute alcoholic hepatitis .

• Approximately one-third of the liver transplants at UAB are performed for hepatocellular carcinoma ( HCC , the most common type of liver cancer ), The UAB Liver Tumor Clinic brings together a wide range of specialists to evaluate HCC cases and serves as an entry to the liver transplant program when necessary .

Here at UAB , we make every effort to streamline our processes to enhance the patient experience . Our liver team has greatly reduced wait times between referral and evaluation , with appointments available now within two weeks in most cases . This care model continues throughout the transplant process , from the advanced operating suites at UAB Hospital to comprehensive post-transplant management in both inpatient and outpatient settings . For the convenience and safety of our patients during the COVID-19 pandemic , we offer phone or video telehealth sessions when possible .

OBSERVED ADULT TRANSPLANT RATES : 01 / 01 / 2018 – 12 / 31 / 2019 SRTR PROGRAM-SPECIFIC REPORT , JULY 2020

UAB ’ s adult transplant rate exceeds the national average . uabmedicine . org / refertransplant 25