Michelle Trachtenberg Underwent Liver Transplant Before Her Passing
Michelle Trachtenberg underwent a liver transplant shortly before her death at age 39, a source told NBC New York. It remains unclear if complications from the procedure played a role in her passing.
The New York City chief medical examiner’s office has not yet determined an official cause of death.
The beloved Gossip Girl and Buffy the Vampire Slayer actress was found unresponsive in a New York City apartment on February 26. Police responded to a 911 call but found no signs of criminal activity.
Hollywood Pays Tribute
Following the heartbreaking news, many of Trachtenberg’s colleagues shared emotional tributes.
Blake Lively, her Gossip Girl co-star, wrote in an Instagram story: “She was electricity. You knew when she entered a room because the vibration changed… The world lost a deeply sensitive and good person in Michelle.”
Chace Crawford also honored her memory, posting throwback selfies and reflecting on their time together: “Michelle was one of a kind… a force of nature, unapologetically funny, and magnetic. Remembering those years with a big smile.”
Alyson Hannigan, who starred alongside Trachtenberg in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, expressed her sorrow on Instagram: “Deeply saddened by the news of Michelle’s passing.”
Trachtenberg’s legacy lives on through her unforgettable performances and the impact she left on those who knew and admired her.
Michelle Trachtenberg’s Liver Transplant and What to Know About the Procedure
Alyson Hannigan, who starred alongside Michelle Trachtenberg in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, shared a heartfelt tribute following her passing: “She brought a loving energy to the set of Buffy. My thoughts are with Michelle’s family and friends.”
Trachtenberg’s Liver Transplant
Shortly before her death, Trachtenberg underwent a liver transplant, a source told NBC New York. However, it remains unclear what led to the procedure or whether it played a role in her passing.
A liver transplant involves replacing a failing liver with a healthy one, either from a deceased donor or a portion of a living donor’s liver, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Why Liver Transplants Are Performed
The liver is a vital organ responsible for processing nutrients, filtering toxins, and fighting infections. A transplant is often needed due to chronic liver disease or, in rare cases, sudden liver failure.
The most common cause of chronic liver failure is cirrhosis—scarring of the liver—caused by conditions such as:
- Hepatitis B and C
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Genetic disorders affecting the liver
- Certain liver cancers
Risks and Survival Rates
Liver transplant surgery comes with significant risks, including bleeding, infections, blood clots, organ rejection, and, in some cases, neurological complications like confusion or seizures.
Despite the challenges, approximately 75% of liver transplant recipients live at least five years post-surgery, according to the Mayo Clinic.
While the exact details of Trachtenberg’s condition remain unknown, her passing has left a deep impact on fans and colleagues who remember her for her talent, warmth, and unforgettable presence.
This article was originally published on TODAY.com