Experiences of physical complications and sequelae among living liver donors

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the aspects of physical complications and sequelae of living liver donors in the context of the Korean culture. A deeper understanding of these experiences will provide basic data necessary for medical management programs for living liver donors and for those expecting to become living liver donors. METHODS: We used a descriptive ethnographic research method through in-depth interviews and participant observation. Data were collected from January 2016 to December 2017, till adequate quantity of data was obtained. Data were collected from 11 living liver donors using the “snow ball” method. In-depth interviews were conducted two to five times per participant, and the duration of each interview was 2 to 3 hours. RESULTS: The results were organized into one domain, three categories, and 12 subcategories. The domain of “physical sequelae remaining after donation” was derived from “experience of internal organ disorders,” “long-lasting chronic pain,” “decrease in immunity and increase in disease incidence.” The experiences of “experience of internal organ disorder” were described as feelings of physical constraints similar to being disabled, 100% recovery to predonation status is not possible, markedly different stamina compared to that before donation, and fatigue, with increased difficulty in performing the activities of daily life. CONCLUSIONS: Provision of appropriate medical care and continuous and systematic health care consultation before and after donation, and development of adequate support systems for donors are essential.