organ transplant surgery

WASHINGTON (7News) — Dr. Stephen Gray, chief of liver transplant surgery at George Washington University Hospital, stopped by the set of “Good Morning Washington” to discuss the topic of liver transplants.

“The most common cause of liver transplantation is alcohol use disorder,” Gray says. “Often patients don't realize how much they're drinking, so when they see their GP they're told their liver enzymes are elevated, or when they look at themselves they turn yellow. Sometimes I notice that there is a mirror. That’s usually the beginning of the journey.”

Mr. Gray discussed ways to prevent the need for transplantation.

“The most important thing you can do is take care of yourself and drink in moderation,” he said.

He went on to talk about the importance of organ donation.

“There are at least 25,000 people on the waiting list for a liver transplant, and only about 10,000 people will receive a transplant,” Gray said. “If you add in other organs that are needed, such as kidneys, lungs, and heart, you have significant organ needs for patients with staged organ disease.”

For more information or to book a visit www.GWHospital.com Or call GW Hospital's liver transplant team at 202-715-5168.