liver transplant info

Okay I have a dad that is 66.  He has cirrhosis of liver, enlarged spleen, diabetic, dementia.  He has been sick for about 5 yrs.  The last time he went to the hospital they said he was in liver failure.  He weighs 275 and is about 5ft 8inches.  I am trying to give u as much info as I can to help answer this.  The Dr. said he could go and see if he can get on the liver transplant list.  However doesnt he have too many other problems for them to consider him for a liver?  He doesnt drive due to his amonia (ammonia) lever getting so high or sugar too low.  Also the dementia plays a part to in this.  One time he drove around the subdivision trying to find his home.  He cant even remember my phone # let alone his own most days.  He never relays messages to my mother correctly.  All he does is lay in bed.  He falls alot.  And I mean alot.  He has cracked the door.  Door down a bush. Cut his head and had to have stitches.  We usually assist him throught the house. He has me, mom, sis, or brother with him all the time. (At least one of us)  Try helping a 275lb man up when u weigh120. He cant take a shower by himself cause he is so weak.  He takes 16 pills a day.  Lactolose 2 times a day. A memory patch and much more.  I dont want him to get his hopes up by going to UT or Vanderbuilt to go through all the screening if only to be told sorry you cant get on the list.  Also from what I ve read most wait 3-4 yrs for liver.  He will probably be dead by then.  SO what is your opinion of him going for an appt which he has in July to Nashville at vanderbuilt to check this out.  Now mind u he dont even go 10 miles from home now with us cause he is so sick.  He stays nauseated.  Anyone ever been through this?  Then to geting the liver isnt going to help the memory.  Also he has had a stroke lately.  Please give any info you can cause the Drs. just say go and try to get on list.  I just dont think this is going to happen.  Your opinion on all this will help.  

[Thomas D Schiano, MD]

unfortunately it doesn't sound like he is a great candidate for transplantation. he has a lot of medical issues and i am not sure whether a transplant will get him back to any appreciable quality of life.  I however do not think it hurts to take him for a one time evaluation as often the transplant team can make a decision right off the bat, so as to give you peace of mind that you did everything possible for him.