Liver Transplant for Cancer

At Atrium Health Levine Cancer, we’re proud to offer one of the nation’s first fully integrated Transplant Oncology Programs. By combining the expertise of cancer specialists and transplant surgeons, we offer a unique and promising treatment option for patients with certain types of liver cancer or cancer that has spread to the liver.

For eligible patients, a liver transplant may offer the best chance at living longer – and in some cases, a cure. Our specialized team can help determine if a transplant is right for you, guiding you every step of the way with advanced treatment and whole-person care.

Why choose Levine Cancer?

• One-of-a-kind program: We’re home to the region’s only Transplant Oncology Program, where cancer and organ transplant experts work together to treat complex cancers and support patients before, during and after transplant.
• Innovative transplant technology: We’re one of the first centers in the U.S. to use normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) – a breakthrough technology that keeps donor livers healthier longer and makes transplant possible for more patients.
• Experienced team: With over 30 years of liver transplant experience, our transplant center in Charlotte is one of the busiest in NC. And our Transplant Oncology Program brings together specialists in transplant surgery, hepatology, medical oncology, radiation oncology and more to give you the best possible outcome. 
• Support services: Our nationally recognized Supportive Oncology Program helps you feel your best by managing symptoms like pain, fatigue and stress. It also provides emotional support, nutrition guidance and help navigating your care – so you’re never facing it alone.

Cancers we treat with liver transplant

Our Transplant Oncology Program treats certain hepatobiliary cancers, as well as some gastrointestinal (GI) cancers that have spread to the liver, including:

• Liver cancer
• Cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) 
• Metastatic colorectal cancer
• Metastatic neuroendocrine tumors 

Eligibility for liver transplant depends on several factors. Our team will help you understand your options and guide you through the next steps.

New hope for colorectal liver metastases (CRLM)

In the past, patients with colorectal cancer that had spread to the liver weren’t considered for liver transplant. Today, that’s changing. 

Thanks to advances in research and care, liver transplant is now a promising option for select patients with CRLM – offering the potential for a longer life, and in some cases, a cure. Our transplant oncology team is proud to offer this innovative new treatment. 

What to expect: liver transplant evaluation 

Choosing to have an organ transplant is a major decision that requires commitment and preparation, and our expert team is here to guide and support you.

Before surgery, our specialists go through several important steps:

• Diagnosis review: We carefully confirm your specific diagnosis or type of metastatic liver disease to determine if you’re a candidate for liver transplant.
• Team evaluation: Your medical history is reviewed by specialists in medical oncology, liver care (hepatology) and transplant surgery. We also begin insurance verification at this stage.
• Patient and caregiver education: If you’re a candidate for transplant, you’ll be invited to group classes to learn about the full process, so you and your loved ones feel informed and prepared.
• Whole-person care: Our multidisciplinary team works together to support your physical, emotional and mental well-being at every step. You’ll be guided by transplant and cancer care navigators with support from experts in oncology, hepatology, surgery, nutrition, pharmacy, physical therapy and more.
• Liver selection committee: Before you’re added to the national transplant waiting list (UNOS), our full care team will review your evaluation to confirm that a liver transplant is the best treatment for you.

For referring providers