The need for transplantation is brought about by some diseases which may cause irreversible changes in the normal liver function. Among the diseases which can potentially be treated with a transplant, the most common is cirrhosis.

Liver transplant surgery can be performed on patients whose ages range from a few days to just over 65, and can offer them a completely normal life. The liver graft is placed in exactly the same anatomical position as the native organ (orthotopic transplant), and connected to patient's blood vessels and choledochus (common bile duct) or intestine to drain the bile produced.