Pre-Transplant Advice

I am a early-30's pre-transplant PSC patient. Currently I have a high 20's MELD score and I have had some instances of cholangitis and other complications, but remain able to work, travel and relocate if possible. My question is in you opinion, would you think that it is best for the patient to go outside NYC in order to get a transplant sooner, or would it be better advised to remain in NYC and wait for a transplant being done by a team of doctors, such as the one you are a member of, that are considered to be leaders in their field.

[Thomas D Schiano, MD]

if you have had cholangitis episodes the have necessitated hospitalization and IV antibiotics you should be able to obtain a variance for addtional MELD points and hopefully move up the list in that fashion.  One could obtain an additional 3 MELD points every 3 months. of course it always depends on the blood type also. High 20s natural MELD should hopefully get you transplanted in the New York region soon.  I think its already a stressful experience and to go away from home and family to have a transplant by a team that you do not know as well is tough.

I hope this is helpful.