Liver Transplant Program

About the program

The Mass General Brigham Liver Transplant Program combines the expertise of two leading institutions – Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Founded in 2021, this joint program expands care options and unites decades of pioneering work in organ transplantation.

In 1954, Brigham and Women’s Hospital performed the world’s first successful organ transplant. Since 1988, Massachusetts General Hospital has been at the forefront of liver transplant, completing over 1,000 liver transplants to date, establishing itself as New England’s most experienced liver program.

Our multidisciplinary liver transplant team offers comprehensive treatment for acute and chronic liver disease, including liver cancer. The Mass General Brigham Liver Transplant Program is comprised of both Mass General and Brigham clinicians. Through this collaboration, you have the option to be seen by doctors at either of the Boston locations for:

• Evaluation, which can also be completed at an outreach evaluation clinic
• Navigation of the transplant waitlist
• Post-transplant care

Surgical care will be solely performed at Mass General. Once you start your care at either Mass General or Brigham, your ongoing liver disease management will be maintained at that same institution.

Part of Transplant Surgery

The patient journey

Distance should not be a barrier to exceptional and quality health care. Through the Transplant Evaluation Program we bring liver transplant care closer to home for patients throughout New England.

Transplant evaluation process

Our integrated evaluation process is available at Mass General, Brigham, and outreach clinics. A dedicated transplant coordinator will guide you through a comprehensive assessment, managing your full treatment plan from initial evaluation to final decision. To begin your liver transplant evaluation, contact our program at 877-716-8440.

Our team ensures you receive expert, personalized care throughout your transplant journey, regardless of location.

What to expect

• Referral: Once your doctor makes a referral, the transplant team will contact you to make an appointment. Patients can self-refer by requesting an appointment by phone or web-based form.
• Evaluation: The process starts with an evaluation appointment, which includes gathering your medical history, a physical exam and minimal initial tests.
• Selection: Your evaluation is reviewed by a committee to determine if you are eligible for a transplant.
• Waitlisting: If your evaluation is approved, your name is added to the national deceased donor waitlist (UNOS) and living donor search starts.
• Readiness: As you move towards the top of the waitlist, approaching your anticipated organ offer date, OR if you have an approved living donor, it's time to get ready.
• Transplant: When there is a match, the team will help you prepare for your transplant.
• After transplant: After your transplant, you'll work with the transplant team to create an action plan for your ongoing care.