The transformational experience of liver transplantation

Liver transplantation is now the treatment of choice for patients with end-stage chronic liver disease. However, few studies have examined the recovery of liver transplant patients and no qualitative research studies have examined the experiences of these patients. Therefore the purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of liver transplantation from the patient's perspective. In-depth focused interviews with 10 liver transplant patients were carried out. Grounded theory data collection and data analysis methods were used. A theoretical framework of the transformational experience of liver transplantation is presented. The process of transformation involves moving through a five-stage trajectory of: receiving the transplant, improving in hospital, improving at home, feeling well again, and reciprocating.