South Middlesex Times

University Hospital’s Center for Liver Transplantation, led by physicians at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (NJMS), has once again been recognized as the nation’s leader in three-year liver transplantation survival rates. A report released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on July 9 highlighted University Hospital's performance, reaffirming its position at the forefront of liver transplantation.

“University Hospital continues to establish itself as a leader in patient safety and outcomes, and we are proud to once again be the national leader in long-term liver transplant survival,” said Ed Jimenez, chief executive and president of University Hospital. “As the first adult liver transplant program in New Jersey, we have had the unique privilege of providing patients with exceptional outcomes right in their backyard since 1989.”

The report from Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR) noted that University Hospital achieved an estimated three-year survival rate of 97.36 percent, outpacing the national rate by nearly 12 percent. Between July 1, 2018, and the end of 2020, Rutgers NJMS physicians transplanted 97 livers with functioning grafts at University Hospital using state-of-the-art technology and innovations.

“Our physicians have a demonstrated track record of offering the highest standard of care and expertise in liver transplantation, and the latest SRTR report is a testament to the strength of our program and continued commitment to excellence,” said Robert Johnson, Sharon and Joseph L. Muscarelle Endowed Dean of NJMS.

The SRTR publicly releases reports every January and July detailing patient outcomes from facilities across the country. At the end of 2022, there were 10,548 adults awaiting liver transplants in the U.S., while only 152 healthcare facilities are federally designated to perform these procedures.

“The institutional focus on liver transplantation at Rutgers and University Hospital allows our multidisciplinary team to stay on the cutting-edge of technology and advance clinical research to improve short- and long-term safety outcomes,” said James V. Guarrera, professor at NJMS and chief of transplant and hepatobiliary surgery as well as director of University Hospital’s liver transplant program. “We are exceedingly grateful to the dozens of organ donors, families, and organizations that have given the gift of life to our patients.”

“This well-earned recognition of exceptional care for liver transplant patients is an excellent example of lifesaving medical innovation taking place at Rutgers with our medical partners," stated Rutgers President Jonathan Holloway.

The Scientific Registry supports ongoing evaluation efforts for solid organ transplantation in order to enhance patient results. It analyzes national data collected by Organ Procurement and Transplant Network on various programs to develop specific reports.