Liver Transplant Surgery in India

 Liver transplant is a life-saving procedure for individuals suffering from end-stage liver disease or acute liver failure. India has emerged as a preferred destination for this surgery due to its advanced medical infrastructure and skilled professionals. This blog explores the various aspects of livertransplant surgery in India.

 

Types of Liver Transplant Surgery in India

This section, Types of Liver Transplant Surgery in India, outlines the four main types of liver transplant procedures available in the country. Here's what each type entails:

1. Orthotopic Transplant: This is the most common type where the entire diseased liver is replaced with a healthy donor liver. The donor liver can come from either a deceased donor or a living donor.
2. Split Liver Transplant: A single donated liver is divided into two parts to save two patients. This technique is especially useful for pediatric and small-sized adult patients.
3. Living Donor Liver Transplant: In this procedure, a healthy person donates a portion of their liver. The liver's regenerative capability ensures that both the donor's and recipient's livers grow back to normal size over time.
4. Auxiliary Liver Transplant: Here, a portion of the donor liver is transplanted alongside the patient's diseased liver. This allows the patient’s liver to potentially recover, at which point the auxiliary liver may be removed.

 

Factors Affecting the Cost of Liver Transplant in India

The cost of a liver transplant in India varies due to several factors:

• Hospital Infrastructure: State-of-the-art facilities and advanced technology impact the overall cost.
• Surgeon’s Expertise: Highly experienced surgeons may charge higher fees.
• Type of Transplant: The cost differs between living-donor and deceased-donor transplants.
• Post-Operative Care: The need for prolonged ICU stays or additional treatments can increase expenses.
• Geographical Location: Major metropolitan cities may have higher costs compared to smaller cities.

 

 

When is a Liver Transplant Required?

A liver transplant is typically required in cases such as:

• Chronic Liver Diseases: Conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis, and liver cancer.
• Acute Liver Failure: Sudden liver dysfunction due to toxins, infections, or medications.
• Congenital Liver Disorders: Conditions like biliary atresia in children.

 

Where Does the Donated Liver Come From?

Liver donations can come from:

• Living Donors: A healthy individual donates a part of their liver, which regenerates over time.
• Deceased Donors: Livers harvested from brain-dead donors with prior consent.

Before Liver Transplant

Pre-transplant procedures include:

• Comprehensive Evaluation: Physical exams, blood tests, imaging, and psychological assessments.
• Matching Process: Identifying a suitable donor.
• Preparation for Surgery: Lifestyle adjustments, medications, and counseling.

 

During Liver Transplant Surgery

The procedure involves:

• General Anesthesia: Administered to ensure the patient is unconscious.
• Surgical Removal: Diseased liver is removed.
• Transplantation: Healthy liver is attached to the patient’s blood vessels and bile ducts.
• Monitoring: Continuous observation to ensure successful functioning of the transplanted liver.

 

After Liver Transplant Surgery

Recovery involves:

• Hospital Stay: 2-3 weeks, including ICU care.
• Medications: Lifelong immunosuppressants to prevent rejection.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Adopting a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol.

Best Liver Transplant Hospitals in India

• Apollo Hospitals
• Fortis Healthcare
• Max Super Specialty Hospital
• Global Hospitals
• Medanta - The Medicity

 

How Much Does Liver Transplant Cost in India?

The cost of liver transplant in India starts from INR 19,31,000 ($23000). The success rate of liver transplant surgery in India ranges between 85% and 90%, which is as high as that offered by the developed countries in the west.

 

The cost of liver transplant surgery in India starts from USD 23,000 (INR 19,31,000). The liver transplant hospitals in India promise unparalleled health treatments at a relatively lower costs compared to the rest of the world.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Liver Transplant Surgery in India

 

1. What is the cost of a liver transplant in India?

Costs typically range from ₹20-25 lakhs, depending on the hospital and procedure.

2. Are living donors safe?

Yes, living donors usually recover fully within a few months.

3. How long is the waiting period for a liver transplant?

It varies depending on donor availability and patient condition.

4. Can international patients get liver transplants in India?

Yes, many hospitals provide medical tourism services for international patients.

5. What is the eligibility criteria for liver donation?

The donor must be in good health, between 18-55 years of age, and have a compatible blood type with the recipient.

6. What are the screening tests for prospective living donors?

Screening tests include blood tests, imaging studies (CT or MRI), liver function tests, and psychological evaluations to ensure donor safety.

7. What are the conditions which can prevent you from receiving a liver transplant?

Conditions include active infections, severe heart or lung disease, active substance abuse, or cancer outside the liver.

8. What is transplant rejection?

Rejection occurs when the immune system attacks the new liver. It is managed with immunosuppressive medications.

9. Will I need to take anti-rejection medications all my life after liver transplant surgery?

Yes, lifelong immunosuppressive medications are necessary to prevent organ rejection.

10. Will I be able to go back to my daily activities after liver transplant?

Most patients can return to normal activities, including work and exercise, within a few months after surgery with proper care and follow-up.