Living donor liver transplant in India is a medical procedure that offers hope and a new lease on life to patients suffering from end-stage liver disease. This life-saving procedure has gained significant recognition and is considered a breakthrough in the field of organ transplantation. The procedure involves transplanting a portion of a healthy liver from a living donor into the recipient, allowing the liver to regenerate and restore its normal function. This article aims to shed light on the process, benefits, risks, success rates, and cost of living donor liver transplant in India, ultimately empowering individuals with knowledge and hope.
Liver diseases can be debilitating, affecting an individual’s quality of life and, in severe cases, leading to organ failure. When all other treatment options fail to provide a viable solution, a liver transplant becomes the only hope for survival. Living donor liver transplant offers a ray of hope by addressing the shortage of deceased donor organs and providing a timely solution for patients in need.
Living Donor Liver Transplant in India helps to meet the exceeding number of the patients waiting for the transplant from limited livers available from the deceased donors. LDLT offers a great alternative to fulfilling the increasing need of the organ.
When there is a living donor, the recipient can avoid possible health issues while waiting for the liver transplant. Besides, a liver donated by a living donor comes with a longer rate of survival.
To ensure the safety and success of the living donor liver transplant procedure, stringent eligibility criteria are in place. Both the donor and the recipient undergo thorough evaluations to assess their suitability for the transplant. The recipient should have end-stage liver disease or acute liver failure, with no contraindications for the procedure. The donor should be a close relative or emotionally connected individual, in good physical and mental health, and willing to undergo the evaluation and surgery. A multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including hepatologists, transplant surgeons, psychologists, and social workers, assesses the medical and psychological aspects of both the donor and the recipient to ensure a successful outcome.
The process of living donor liver transplant consists of several stages, starting with the initial evaluation of the donor and recipient. Once the eligibility is confirmed, the surgery is scheduled, and preoperative preparations begin. The donor undergoes a thorough evaluation, including blood tests, imaging studies, and liver volume assessment. Simultaneously, the recipient is prepared for the transplant, ensuring optimal health and readiness for the procedure.
The surgery itself involves removing a portion of the healthy liver from the donor and transplanting it into the recipient. The surgical team meticulously connects the blood vessels and bile ducts, ensuring proper blood flow and functioning of the newly transplanted liver. Postoperative care, including close monitoring, medication, and follow-up visits, is crucial for the successful recovery of both the donor and the recipient.
The donor’s remaining liver regrows and gets it back to its average volume, size, and capacity within a few months from the date of surgery. Similarly, the transplanted portion of the liver regenerates and regains the normal functioning of the liver in the liver recipient.
To be more specific, the regeneration of the liver in both the living donor and the recipient gets completed nearly three months after undergoing the surgical procedure. The best part is that a significant portion of the liver regrows within three weeks of the liver transplant surgery.
As a result, most living donor of liver transplant returns to their typical life after six weeks. On the other hand, almost all of them recover completely after three months of liver surgery.
Living donor liver transplant offers several benefits, making it a preferred choice in many cases. The waiting time for a deceased donor organ is significantly reduced, increasing the chances of a timely transplant. Moreover, living donor liver transplants generally have better outcomes due to the use of a healthy liver from a living donor. This procedure also has the potential for better long-term survival rates and improved quality of life for the recipient. However, like any surgical procedure, living donor liver transplant carries certain risks. The donor may experience pain, infection, bleeding, or complications related to the surgery. The recipient may face complications such as organ rejection, infection, bile duct complications, or side effects of immunosuppressant medications. It is crucial for individuals considering this procedure to weigh the benefits against the risks and make an informed decision in consultation with their healthcare team.
Living donor liver transplant cost in India varies depending on several factors, including the hospital, surgeon’s expertise, complexity of the case, and postoperative care requirements. On average, the cost of the procedure ranges from INR 20 to 30 lakhs. It is important to note that this cost includes preoperative evaluations, surgery, hospital stay, medications, and follow-up care. Financial support options such as health insurance coverage, government schemes, and crowdfunding platforms may be available to help individuals manage the cost of living donor liver transplant in India.
Living donor liver transplant in India has shown promising success rates, comparable to renowned transplant centers worldwide. The multidisciplinary approach, advanced surgical techniques, and experienced healthcare professionals contribute to these favorable outcomes. The success of the transplant is not solely dependent on the surgery itself but also on the postoperative care, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications of the recipient. Regular follow-up visits and close monitoring are crucial to ensure the long-term success of the transplant.
Selecting the best hospital for living donor liver transplant in India is crucial for a successful outcome. It is essential to consider factors such as the hospital’s expertise in liver transplantation, the experience of the surgical team, the availability of advanced technology and infrastructure, and the quality of postoperative care. Apollo Hospitals, Fortis Hospitals, Medanta – The Medicity, Max Hospitals, Manipal Hospital, Jaypee Hospital, Metro Hospital, Amrita Hospital, and Asian Hospital are the leading hospitals in New Delhi/NCR for living donor liver transplant. Researching and gathering information about different hospitals, consulting with healthcare professionals, and seeking recommendations from Dania Medicare Solutions can help individuals make an informed decision.
| Treatment | Cost Starts From ($) | Hospital Stay |
| Living Donor Liver Transplant | 32000-36000 | 8-10 Days |
| Liver Transplant | 24000-28000 | 10-20 Days |
| Deceased donor liver transplants | 32000-36000 | 8-10 Day |
| Liver Cancer | 4000-4400 | 5-6 Days |
| End-Stage Liver Disease | 12000-13600 | 7-8 Days |
| Pediatric Liver Transplant | 16000-18400 | 7-8 Days |
When do you need a liver transplant?
Are you suffering from chronic liver disease? Then it would help if you got a liver transplant, and it’s important to consult a specialist. Also, sudden liver failure requires an immediate transplant to overcome serious health issues. Usually, serious liver damage due to Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and liver cirrhosis lead to liver failure.
What are the symptoms of liver damage?
Mild liver diseases usually won’t give rise to any symptoms. However, you may notice swollen ankles and feet and water retention in the abdomen if you have serious liver disease. You will notice extreme fatigue that affects your daily lifestyle. Your doctor will suggest some blood tests, and low blood counts indicate liver diseases. Also, there may be black stools and vomiting, which indicates acute liver diseases.
How to proceed with a liver transplant?
First, you need to consult an expert doctor who checks your overall health and gives you the right suggestions. Also, your doctor may recommend some tests to learn the actual condition of your liver. It helps the doctor carry out a successful liver transplant, and you can also avoid future complications. Next, you need to find a suitable donor, and a family member can be an ideal donor. If you choose a living donor, ensure the person’s age is between 18 and 55. The blood group must match and ensure that the donor is not suffering from obesity.
How long it takes to recover after a liver transplant?
Recovery time depends on a patient’s health and the severity of the liver disease. A liver transplant usually requires 7-10 days of hospital stay. And you can return to normal activities after 3 months, and it’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions. Thus, you will lead life freely, and a liver transplant improves your way of life.
Is liver transplantation safe?
Liver transplantation is completely safe and grows to its normal size faster. Also, the donor won’t face any serious health complications; they usually need to take medications for 2-3 weeks. And a donor can return to a normal lifestyle within a month. And after 3 months, a donor can perform heavy exercises, and there won’t be any restrictions.
Do liver transplants become successful?
The success rate of liver transplants depends on the patient’s health condition. It’s good to find an experienced surgeon who will handle the whole procedure efficiently. Usually, 90% of liver transplants are successful, and the patient leads a better life.
Are any medicines required post-surgery?
Yes, a doctor may prescribe certain medication that helps you avoid infections and bleeding post-surgery. And you may require some long-term medications; however, the dosage will decrease with time.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Top Doctors in India for Living Donor Liver Transplant :
A specialist in Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endoscopy with a rich experience of over 42 years is currently working in Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj.
Dr. P Kar is a Senior Consultant & HOD of Gastroenterology & Hepatology at the Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali. His educational qualification includes an MBBS from the Gauhati Medical College & Hospital, Assam.
Dr. Kishore is the Senior Consultant & Clinical Lead, HPB Surgery & Liver Transplantation at Fortis Hospital, Bangalore. He has over 17 years of surgical experience and is committed to providing safe, high-quality patient-centric care.
Dr M .A Mir is a well known Gastroenterologist and Endoscopist with a vast experience of more than 17 years in the field of Gastroenterology.
Dr. Ajay Kumar Chauhan is a renowned General Surgeon with experience of more than 22 years. He is an active member of the Indian Medical Association, Association of Surgeons of India
Dr. Neeraj Chaudhary is a GastroIntestinal and Laparoscopic Surgeon with experience of over 14 years in these fields. Dr. Neeraj completed MBBS and MS (General Surgery) from Kasturba Medical College and DNB (Gastroenterology) from Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
Having successfully treated numerous patients, Dr. Pankaj Lohia is a leading name in the field of liver transplantation. He has been widely acknowledged for his versatile and patient-centric approach.
Listed amongst the leading Gastroenterologist of the country, Dr. Manav Wadhawan is recognised for his works in the field of HBIg free regimens in HVB related liver transplants. His interest lies in Hepatology including transplant hepatology.
Having successfully treated numerous patients, Dr. Amit Kumar Singhal is a leading name in the field of liver transplantation & HPB anaesthesia. He has been widely acknowledged for his versatile and patient-centric approach.
Having successfully treated numerous patients, Dr. Abhideep Chaudhary is a leading name in the field of HPB surgery & liver transplantation. He has been widely acknowledged for his versatile and patient-centric approach.
Dr Sanjay Kumar Yadav has experience of over 10 years in the field of HPB & Liver Transplant Surgery.
Dr. Sanjay Goja is Director, Clinical Lead & Senior Consultant – Liver Transplant and HPB & Robotic Liver surgery at Narayana Health.
Dr. Shaleen Agarwal is a GastroIntestinal Surgeon in Saket, Delhi and has an experience of 27 years in this field. Dr. Shaleen Agarwal practices at Max Super Speciality Hospital – Saket West Wing in Saket, Delhi and Max Super Speciality Hospital in Vaishali, Ghaziabad.
Dr. Ankur A Gupta is a Consultant Surgeon at the Institute of Liver Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine in Medanta, Gurugram. After his surgical training at SMS Medical College, Jaipur, he worked and trained at centers of repute in India and abroad
Dr. Neerav Goyal is a reputed Liver Transplant and GI surgeon practicing successfully for more than 15 years.
Dr. Bhaskar Nandi is a gastroenterologist with 21+ years of experience. He won Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) by President of India for meritorious service in Armed Forces. He is a member of the Indian Society of Gastroenterology (ISG), Indian National Association for Study of Liver (INASL) and Association of Physician of India (API).
Dr. Sukrit Singh Sethi after completing his MBBS from KMC Manipal, extensively trained in General Medicine (MD – Medicine) from DYPMC, Pune. Then he worked as a senior resident (Hepatology) at the prestigious institute ILBS, Vasant Kunj and also joined CLBS, Max Saket for exclusive Transplant Hepatology exposure.
Dr Mridul Chandra Das after completing MBBS from Nil Ratan Sircar Medical College, Calcutta, did MD – (Paediatrics) from the Prestigious Institute “Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh”.
Dr. Pallavi Garg is a well-known Gastroenterologist with experience of more than 9 years. Dr. Pallavi is a member of the Indian Society of Gastroenterology (ISG) and Indian National Association for Study of the Liver (INASL).
Dr.Kapildev Yadav is a Consultant, Liver Transplant & HPB Surgery with over 8 years of experience. Dr.Kapildev has graduated and done his DNB General Surgery (National Board of Examinations). Later he did fellowship in HPB & Liver Transplant from one of the pioneer centre in western India.
Dr. Gaurav Gupta is a Hepatobiliary surgeon with 15+ years of experience. He has performed more than 300 liver transplants as a primary surgeon. He completed his MBBS and MS from Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi.
Dr. Sandeep Karmarkar is an ENT surgeon with 22+ years of experience. He completed MBBS from Amravati University, Amravati in 1990. Dr. Karmarkar is a member of the Indian Medical Association (IMA).
Dr. Harshal Rajekar is a leading Gastroenterologist and Liver Transplant Surgeon. He has 16 years of experience in his field. He completed his MBBS in 1998 and MS in General Surgery in 2004 from B J Medical College.
Dr Mettu Srinivas Reddy is currently the Director of Liver transplantation and Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery at Gleneagles Global Hospital & Health City, Chennai, India.
Dr. Basant Mahadevappa is a Liver Transplant and Hepato Pancreato Biliary Surgeon with experience of more than 12 years. He completed his MBBS from J J M Medical College, Davengere in 2002, MS – General Surgery from Kasturba Medical College in 2006, and lastly MRCS (UK) from Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSE), U.K in 2007.
Dr Mahesh Gopasetty is a compassionate doctor and HPB surgeon with a rich experience of more than 15 years of practicing transplant with a successful background in the multi organ transplant. He worked with fortis hospital, Bangalore where he independently performed over 1000 liver transplants, 30 pancreas transplants, 3 small intestine transplants.
Dr. Arvind Kidambi Seshadri is a Liver transplant surgeon with 12+ experience. He completed his MBBS from the reputed Bangalore Medical College followed by MS in General Surgery from the well-known PGIMER, Chandigarh. Later, he did MCh in HPB Surgery from the Institute of the liver and biliary sciences in New Delhi, India.
Dr. Jayanth Reddy is a leading Liver Transplant Surgeon in Bangalore, India. He has been practicing for the past 18 years. He has numerous research and publications to his credit. He has also co-authored book chapters related to HPB surgery.
Dr. Jamwal has worked extensively in the field of Fatty Liver, GI bleeding, Biliary tract disorders, Advanced Endoscopy Procedures in Liver Diseases and also worked on Fecal Microbiota Transplantation. His clinical interest lies in NAFLD and its spectrum, Bile and its metabolism, Enterohepatic circulation, Biliary tree including Gall bladder, bile duct and pancreas, GI bleed and portal Hemodynamics.
Dr. Vikram Raut is a Senior Consultant, Hepatobiliary and Liver Transplantation Surgeon at Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre, Mumbai. He has extensive experience of Living-donor liver transplantation, with cumulative experience of over 1200 liver transplants and performed > 500 Living liver donor surgery.
Dr. Ashok Thorat is a Senior Consultant atApollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai with an experience of over 10 years. He completed his MBBS from Pune University, Maharashtra and DNB (General surgery) from National Board, New Delhi.
Dr. Ashok Thorat is a Senior Consultant atApollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai with an experience of over 10 years. He completed his MBBS from Pune University, Maharashtra and DNB (General surgery) from National Board, New Delhi.
Dr. Ajitabh Srivastava is a hepatologist with 12+ years of experience. He, along with his team, has performed more than 1500 liver transplant including deceased donor, living donor, pediatric transplant and combined kidney and liver transplant.
Dr. Vaibhaw Kumar is a renowned Liver Transplant specialist in New Delhi. He has 10 years of experience in his field. He pursued MBBS from Government Medical College, Nagpur, MS from the University College Of Medical Sciences (UCMS), Delhi, and M.Ch in HPB Surgery &Liver Transplant from Institute of Liver & Biliary Sciences.
