A Scoping Review of Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Liver Transplant Surgery: From Planning to Postoperative Follow-up

Abstract

Context: Liver transplantation is among the most complex and life-saving interventions in modern medicine and requires precise coordination among multiple specialties. Interdisciplinary collaboration throughout the transplantation process, from initial patient assessment to postoperative care, is critical for improving clinical outcomes and enhancing the quality of care. This study aimed to comprehensively examine the role and importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in liver transplant surgery, focusing on its challenges, opportunities, and strategies to improve team performance. Evidence Acquisition: This study was conducted as a scoping review in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Scientific databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, were searched for articles published between 2015 and 2025. Keywords such as liver transplantation, interdisciplinary collaboration, team-based care, and clinical outcomes were used in combination. After screening according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 45 articles were selected for final analysis. Results: The findings indicate that interdisciplinary collaboration plays a decisive role throughout the liver transplantation process, from patient evaluation and selection to surgery and posttransplant follow-up. Structured teams comprising surgeons, hepatologists, psychologists, nurses, pharmacists, and social workers contribute to improved clinical indicators, reduced readmission rates, and increased patient satisfaction. In addition, digital health technologies and structured team meetings were identified as effective tools for enhancing interdisciplinary cooperation.