| Abstract [eng] |
Aim of the study. To review and analyze literature on the biopsychosocial aspects of life quality in patients after liver transplantation and suggest the recommendations for the care of this patient group. Materials and methods. A literature review was conducted using the Pubmed database in English and Lithuanian languages over the period of 2014-2024, using keywords that were MeSH terms: „liver transplantation“ and „quality of life“. By using inclusions and exclusion criteria, 66 articles were included in the literature review. Additional context literature was sourced and 13 additional articles were included. Results and conclusions. With an increase in liver disease prevalence, there will be a likely need for more liver transplantations. After reaching a good survival after liver transplantation, the aim of the procedure should become better quality of life, which consists of physical and psychological health, as well as reintegration into society and interpersonal relationships. It has been noted, that despite the general improvement in quality of life compared to the chronic liver disease group, the life quality of transplanted patients does not reach that of the general population. The biggest problem that is encountered in terms of physical health is sarcopenia, which is associated not only with worse quality of life but also an increased risk of post-transplant mortality. Transplanted patients also often face issues like sleep disorders and around half of all patients after liver transplantation face mental health disorders, most commonly – anxiety disorders and depression. These disorders reduce the quality of life, as well as increase the risk of non-compliance with the treatment regimen and post-transplant mortality. The return to work after liver transplantation is seemingly impaired, with as many as two-thirds of all transplanted patients not coming back to their jobs. A biopsychosocial outlook used for the care of these patients is essential. Multiple specialists are required to take part in the care of this patient group as well as the use of a variety of medical and non-medical treatment options, which would allow for an improved patient daily function, more positive subjective evaluation of health and better treatment and survival outcomes. Further research in this area is essential as there is a lack of large multicenter trials concerning the quality of life after liver transplantation. |
