Addiction Treatment Before and After Liver Transplantation Improves Outcomes

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Drug Treatment Center, Malibu

...that those who receive substance abuse treatment before and after transplantation have a higher chance of remaining alcohol free...

Malibu, CA (PRWEB) October 15, 2013

Two recent studies published in the journal Liver Transplantation show that careful monitoring of alcohol use and abuse is crucial for liver transplants to be most effective. The first study suggests that those who receive substance abuse treatment before and after transplantation have a higher chance of remaining alcohol free than those who do not receive such treatment. The second study found that alcohol abuse after a liver transplant correlates with higher levels of transplant failure. These are important findings for those in need of a liver transplant.

“Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is the second most common reason for liver transplants in the United States and Europe, but research suggests that anywhere from 10 percent to 90 percent of ALD patients who get a new liver start drinking again after their transplant,” reports US News’ Health Day. Because livers are so hard to come by, it is critical to do everything possible to make sure that those who receive livers are doing all they can to remain healthy. This may include alcohol abuse treatment.

Dr. Damon Raskin, a medical doctor specializing in addiction treatment, said of this report, “I’m happy to be able to give hope to those who have had or are in need of a liver transplant. Even for alcoholics with significant recovery before the transplant, the transplant itself can be such a time of upheaval that they can relapse. Now, we have evidence that if we assist a person by recognizing this difficult time on a psychological level – and are vigilant in providing substance abuse recovery resources pre- and post-surgery – we can ensure that a greater number of people survive and our transplanted organs are not abused. This is a very encouraging set of findings with a relatively easy to implement treatment plan. I look forward to seeing what physicians, hospitals and outpatient treatment programs do with this information.”

About Sunset Malibu:

Sunset Malibu Drug Rehab is a top-notch depression and addiction treatment center in a private setting with a multitude of treatment options focusing on helping people overcome their addictions and transforming their lives. For information about Sunset Malibu’s effective treatments and intervention services, please call 1-800-332-9202, 24 hours a day.

Source: Sunset Malibu

Related Links: http://www.SunsetMalibu.com

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