Page Hierarchy
- Services and Treatments
- Specialty Care
- Kidney, Pancreas and Liver Transplants
The science and practice of organ transplantation surgery can transform lives. When an organ such as the kidney or liver stops working on its own, transplant surgery can allow you to live a fuller life, on your terms.
Once evaluated, if you are eligible for a transplant, our team will create a plan specifically suited to your physical, psychological and financial situation. We’ll assist you with all aspects of the procedure. Our surgeons, specialists and highly trained support staff are dedicated to delivering unmatched care before, during and after organ transplantation.
How do I get referred to the Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) transplant program?
You can self-refer to LVHN’s kidney, pancreas and liver transplant program Opens in new tab using this form. If you are a potential candidate for a kidney or pancreas transplant, you may also be referred by a nephrologist or dialysis center. For a liver transplant, you might be referred by a hepatologist.
How do you get on the transplant list?
Everyone must be evaluated for appropriateness for transplant candidacy, and not everyone will be placed on the transplant waiting list. You may not be healthy enough for a transplant or have other problems that limit your eligibility. Regardless, it’s important to be evaluated early.
If you’re approved for a liver transplant, you will be placed on the national transplant waiting list. Wait times can vary depending on factors such as your medical urgency, blood type and organ availability. We will provide ongoing support to help you stay as healthy as possible while you wait. In the case of a kidney transplant, during your time on a wait list you can begin searching for a suitable living donor.
You have the right and the ability to be on wait lists at multiple transplant centers in the U.S.
Additional Resources
Kidney and Pancreas Transplant
If you or someone you care about needs a kidney or pancreas transplant, you’ll want to choose a quality program. We maintain a 94 percent success rate for kidney transplants and a general transplant success rate well above the national and regional norms.
Liver Transplant
If you need a liver transplant, registering at Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence can save your life. Our specialist surgeons are some of the finest in the nation and a full multidisciplinary team will support your recovery.
Get a second opinion for transplant services
We offer leading-edge medical and surgical treatments for a variety of disorders, both rare and routine. By obtaining a second opinion from our skilled treatment team, you’ll receive the peace of mind you need to make an informed decision.
We’ll meet with you to:
- Confirm a diagnosis.
- Explore all treatment options, including treatments or procedures that may not be widely available.
- Discuss whether a treatment or care plan is the best fit for you.
- Ensure you’re confident in the approach and expertise of your care team.
![Patient Needing General Surgery at the LVHN Surgery Institute](/sites/default/files/styles/max_384x384/public/2018-12/Banner%20Image-Special%20Surgery2_0.jpg?itok=OKLfxD8F&cb=49f0a411)
Innovations at Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence
Communication during surgery
For families, the hardest part of surgery is waiting and wondering. LVHN now offers secure mobile updates using the EASE app.