Undergoing a liver transplant involves removing an infected liver and replacing it with a healthy one from a donor. As complex as this surgery is, a liver transplant offers a second chance at life. In India, advancements in medical technology and skilled transplant teams at leading hospitals like BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital in New Delhi, have made this procedure more accessible and successful. This guide covers everything you need to know about the liver transplant process, the types of transplants, recovery, and post-surgery care.
Table of Contents
What is a Liver Transplant and When is it Necessary
A liver transplant is a mandatory operation when a liver can no longer perform its vital functions due to severe diseases and damage.
The reasons for the liver damage can be because of:
- Alcohol-induced liver
- Chronic hepatitis B or C infection
- Primary biliary cirrhosis (a rare autoimmune disease)
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer)
- Metabolic disorders (e.g., Wilson’s disease, Hemochromatosis)
- Biliary atresia (a birth defect in bile ducts)
In most cases, patients requiring a transplant experience complications like jaundice, blood clotting issues, and malnutrition, leading to a decline in overall health. Liver transplant in India have become a reasonable option with the availability of advanced facilities and skilled professionals.
Types of Liver Transplants
There are majorly two types of liver transplants:
Deceased Donor Transplant: In this type, a healthy liver is obtained from a deceased donor. Typically, this donor is brain-dead but has a healthy liver that can be donated. Deceased donor liver transplants are coordinated based on a waiting list, and eligibility is determined by factors such as blood type compatibility and urgency.
Living Donor Transplant: In a living donor liver transplant, a healthy person donates a portion of their liver, which regenerates in both the donor and the recipient within a few weeks. This option is highly successful in India due to shorter wait times and better recipient outcomes. A living donor is usually a close relative, spouse, or friend who matches the patient’s blood type and meets certain health criteria.
The Liver Transplant Procedure
Liver transplant surgery is complex and generally takes about 8 to 12 hours. Here’s an overview of the process:
Donor Liver Preparation: The donor liver is carefully prepared for transplantation. For deceased donor transplants, this process involves coordinating with organ donation organisations to obtain a suitable liver.
Recipient Surgery: An incision is made in the upper abdomen, and the diseased liver is removed. The new liver is then placed and connected to the patient’s blood vessels and bile ducts. This delicate procedure requires expert surgeons and may involve significant blood transfusions.
Post-Transplant Care: After surgery, the patient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit (ICU) for several days. This period is crucial for ensuring that the body accepts the new liver. Post-transplant patients are required to stay in the hospital for 3 to 4 weeks, depending on their recovery.
Recovery and Post-Operative Care
The recovery journey after a liver transplant is as important as the surgery itself. Here’s what patients can expect post-surgery:
Immunosuppressive Medications: To prevent the body from rejecting the new liver, patients must take immunosuppressive drugs as prescribed by the doctors. These medications suppress the immune system, helping the body accept the transplanted organ. Other supportive medicines, such as antibiotics and antifungals, may be prescribed to protect against infections.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Patients need to follow a structured recovery plan, including a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol, and maintaining a consistent exercise regimen. Regular check-ups with the liver transplant team are essential for tracking progress and adjusting medications as needed.
Infection Prevention: A key risk after a transplant is infection due to immunosuppressive therapy. Patients and their families are advised to practice good hygiene and avoid crowded places to minimise exposure to infections.
Risks and Precautions in Liver Transplant Surgery
Like any major surgery, liver transplants come with risks, primarily rejection and infection.
Rejection: The immune system may recognise the new liver as a foreign object, attacking it as a defence mechanism. Anti-rejection drugs help prevent this response, but they must be taken as prescribed by medical experts.
Infection Risks: Due to immune suppression, liver transplant recipients are more susceptible to infections. Symptoms like fever, fatigue, or unusual pain should be reported to the transplant team immediately.
The Role of Anti-Rejection Drugs
Immunosuppressant drugs, or anti-rejection medications, are essential after a liver transplant. These drugs help reduce the body’s immune response, allowing the new liver to function effectively. They also make the body more susceptible to infections, bridging a balance between immunity and rejection prevention.
Long-Term Outlook and Quality of Life
With a successful liver transplant, patients can return to a relatively normal life, enjoying better health and longevity. Advances in surgery and post-operative care have improved the survival rates and quality of life for liver transplant recipients in India. Following the prescribed medications, maintaining regular check-ups, and adopting a healthy lifestyle contribute significantly to a long and healthy life post-transplant.
Why Choose BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital for Liver Transplant
Renowned Liver Transplant Team:
- The hospital’s Liver Transplantation Department is led by Dr. Abhideep Chaudhary, Vice Chairman & Head of HPB Surgery & Liver Transplantation, with over 20 years of experience.
- Dr. Chaudhary has performed over 2,000 liver transplants and HPB surgeries, supported by training from the prestigious University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
- He is an internationally respected expert, regularly presenting at conferences and contributing to liver transplant research.
Experienced Specialists:
- Dr. Niteen Kumar and Dr. Gaurav Sood, both Associate Directors, are known for their patient-centred approaches and expertise in HPB and liver transplantation.
- Dr. Aditya Shriya, Consultant in HPB Surgery & Liver Transplant, adds over a decade of specialized experience, backed by a strong clinical and academic background.
Advanced Facilities:
- The Liver Transplant Unit at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital plant patients.
- This ensures a safe and supportive environment throughout each stage of the transplant process.
Comprehensive, Multidisciplinary Approach:
- Patients receive holistic support from a team that includes hepatologists, dieticians, and physical therapists.
- This integrated care model ensures comprehensive support from initial consultation through recovery and post-operative care, providing liver transplant patients with exceptional care at every step.
Know more about : Care After Successful Liver Transplant Surgery and Precautions
Conclusion
A liver transplant in India has become a viable solution for patients suffering from severe liver disease, thanks to advancements in medical infrastructure and the expertise of transplant teams. With the proper guidance and care, patients can look forward to a successful recovery and a return to daily life.
