Individuals Living with a Liver Transplant - a Follow-up Study Exploring Mental, Emotional and Existential Issues 10 Years After Transplantation

Overview

Journal Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being

Specialties Health Services
Public Health

Date 2023 Jul 6

PMID 37410873

Authors

Dagfinn Naden

Ida Torunn Bjork

Affiliations

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Abstract

Background: Going through a liver transplantation is by many recipients considered mentally and emotionally burdensome.

Aim: The aim of this study was to explore individuals' mental, emotional and existential experiences living with a liver transplant during a period of approximately ten years.

Methodological Design: The methodology in this study is based on Gadamer's hermeneutics. Galvin and Todres' conceptual framework on well-being was applied in the interpretation process.

Research Methods: Both researchers conducted interviews, which took the form of conversations. We made use of Brinkmann and Kvales' three types of interpretation.

Ethical Issues And Approval: The study was approved by the Ombudsman for Privacy of the Norwegian Social Data Services and is based on informed consent and confidentiality.

Results: Three themes emerged through interpretation: 1. From great suffering to gratitude and a humble attitude towards life. 2. From living in uncertainty to leading a normal life. 3. From hopelessness and anxiety to an indifferent attitude towards life.

Conclusion: This study showed that the process of receiving a new liver and living with it, had changed most of the participants' attitudes towards life in a humble way. Some persons struggled with life and experienced depression anxiety, as well as lack of energy.

Citing Articles

Aspects of dignity in family caregivers of persons suffering from multiple sclerosis.

Naden D, Lindwall L, Lohne V Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being. 2025; 20(1):2468047.

PMID: 39967568 PMC: 11841095. DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2025.2468047.

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