Service overview

Queensland Liver Transplant Service (QLTS) was established by Professor Russell Strong and his team in 1985. QLTS is one of the most outstanding national and international liver transplant units.

It is the only liver transplant centre in Queensland and a privilege to be referred to.

Adults are transplanted at the Princess Alexandra Hospital, whilst children are transplanted at Queensland Children’s Hospital. Organ Donation rates have increased in recent times and the number of patients referred for transplantation is also increasing.

No patient listed for transplant knows exactly how long they will wait for their transplant opportunity. The waiting time can range from days to a couple of years.

History

Liver transplantation dates to the 19th century when organ transplantation was attempted in animals. In 1954, the first successful human kidney transplant took place. Heart transplants followed soon after in 1967.

Liver transplantation began in 1963 and over the past 20 years it has become an accepted and effective treatment for patients with life threatening, irreversible liver disease. The goal of liver transplantation is to prolong survival with improved quality of life.

The first liver transplant in Australia was performed in 1985, in Brisbane by Professor Russell Strong.

Since then the QLTS has performed more than 1500 liver transplants in adults and children. With the advancement of surgical techniques, development of new and better immunosuppression drugs, increased specialization of medical care and follow-up, patient short- and long-term outcomes continue to improve.

Liver transplantation is a journey and the surgery itself is only one part of the treatment of your liver disease. Liver transplant surgery is very complex and not without risks. Here in Queensland and throughout Australia we have excellent outcomes after liver transplantation.

At 1 year after liver transplantation, approximately 90 per cent of adults are alive. This means that one person in every ten may not be alive 1 year after having a liver transplant.

5 years after liver transplantation, about 85 per cent of adults are alive, while the 10 year survival rate is also very good at about 75 per cent. About half of all adults who have had a liver transplant in Australia have survived 20 years.