Individuals living with a liver transplant – a follow-up study exploring mental, emotional and existential issues 10 years after transplantation

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.