Everything You Need to Know About Liver Transplant Surgery in India

Did you know that liver transplant surgery is no longer a rare procedure? At PSRI Hospital, we have witnessed a significant rise in successful liver transplants with thousands of patients in India undergoing this life saving surgery each year. The human liver is an extraordinary organ, it has the unique ability to regenerate itself even after losing up to 70% of its mass. However, when severe conditions like cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer cause irreversible damage, a liver transplant becomes the only effective treatment option for survival.

For patients and their families, navigating the journey of Liver Transplant Surgery in India can feel overwhelming. Concerns about costs, hospital selection, and post-surgery recovery can add to the emotional and financial stress. We understand these challenges and are committed to providing the best possible care. In this blog we will break down everything you need to know from the transplant procedure and costs to the recovery process to ensure you have the right information to make an informed decision.

What is Liver Transplant Surgery?

A liver transplant is a surgery in which a damaged or failing liver is replaced with a healthy liver from a donor. The donor can either be a living person, such as a family member or friend, who donates a portion of their liver, or a deceased donor, where the entire liver is transplanted from someone who has passed away. The liver has the ability to regenerate, which means both the donor and the recipient can regain normal liver function over time.

Who Needs a Liver Transplant?

Our doctors may recommend a liver transplant for patients who are suffering from severe liver conditions that cannot be treated with medication or other medical interventions. A liver transplant may be necessary for individuals with:

• Chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis caused by hepatitis, alcohol consumption or fatty liver disease.
• Liver cancer, if it is confined to the liver and has not spread to other parts of the body.
• Acute liver failure which can occur suddenly due to infections, drug toxicity or autoimmune diseases.
• Genetic or congenital liver disorders that affect normal liver function and quality of life.

We assess each patient carefully to determine whether a liver transplant is the best possible treatment to ensure they receive the highest level of care and the best possible outcome.

Choosing the Best Liver Transplant Hospital in India

We understand that choosing the right hospital for liver transplant surgery in India is an important decision that directly impacts the success of the procedure and your recovery. Not all hospitals have the expertise, technology, and infrastructure required to perform liver transplants with high success rates. Patients must carefully evaluate facilities before making a decision. At PSRI hospital you will get:

• Experienced transplant surgeons with a high success rate
• Advanced ICU care and post-operative monitoring to prevent complications
• Organ transplant accreditation from recognized medical authorities
• A strong donor program for living and cadaveric transplants
• A multidisciplinary team including hepatologists, transplant surgeons, anesthetists, and post-operative care specialists.

We offer comprehensive liver transplant services, ensuring that our patients receive world-class treatment, advanced post-surgical care, and long-term support for a successful recovery.

Understanding Liver Transplant Cost in India

One of the most common concerns among patients is the Liver Transplant Cost in India. The total expense of the procedure depends on several factors, including the type of transplant, the advanced medical facilities available at PSRI and the complexity of the patient’s condition. Below is an approximate cost breakdown:

• Living Donor Liver Transplant: ₹18-₹30 lakhs
• Deceased Donor Liver Transplant: ₹25-₹35 lakhs
• Pre-transplant Evaluation & Tests: ₹2-₹4 lakhs
• Post-transplant Medications & Follow-ups: ₹50,000 – ₹1 lakh annually

 

Liver Transplant Process at PSRI Hospital

The liver transplant process involves multiple steps:

1. Pre-Transplant Evaluation

patients undergo a comprehensive medical assessment including advanced diagnostic tests to evaluate overall health, liver function, and transplant eligibility. If a living donor transplant is considered, the donor also undergoes a thorough evaluation to ensure compatibility and safety.

2. Finding a Suitable Donor

• Living Donor: A healthy individual, usually a close family member donates a portion of their liver. PSRI Hospital follows strict donor evaluation protocols to ensure a safe and successful transplant.
• Deceased Donor: The patient is registered on the transplant waiting list and our team closely monitors organ availability for a suitable match.

3. The Surgery

Liver transplant surgery in India at PSRI Hospital is a highly specialized procedure lasting for up to 6 to 12 hours, performed by an experienced team of transplant surgeons and specialists. The key steps include:

• Removing the damaged liver with precision and care
• Replacing it with a healthy donor liver, ensuring proper alignment
• Connecting blood vessels and bile ducts to restore normal liver function

Recovery and Life After a Liver Transplant

Hospital Stay & Immediate Recovery

Most patients stay in the hospital for 2-4 weeks after surgery. During this time our doctors focus on:

• Monitoring for organ rejection
• Managing post-surgical pain
• Ensuring proper liver function through regular blood tests

Long Term Care & Medications

After a liver transplant, lifelong medications are needed to help the body accept the new liver and prevent rejection. You should:

• Take immunosuppressive drugs as prescribed.
• Attend regular follow-ups with a hepatologist.
• Follow a nutrient-rich diet and adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Most patients return to normal activities within 3-6 months but recovery varies from person to person.

Final Thoughts

A liver transplant can give patients a fresh start and a healthier future. Choosing the right hospital in India is key to a successful transplant. PSRI Hospital ensures the best care with:

Expert transplant surgeons skilled in complex liver surgeries.
Comprehensive post-transplant care for a smooth recovery.
Advanced medical facilities with the latest technology.

If you or a loved one needs a liver transplant, don’t wait. PSRI Hospital provides the right care and support to help you live a longer, healthier life. Get in touch with us today.

FAQs

How much does a liver transplant cost in Delhi?

Ans. The liver transplant cost in India can vary depending on various factors, such as the type of transplant, the medical condition of the patient, and the hospital’s facilities. However, consulting with the best liver transplant surgeon in Delhi is recommended to get an accurate cost estimate.

What qualifies a patient for a liver transplant?

Ans. Patients may qualify for a liver transplant if they have liver failure or end-stage liver disease and their infection does not respond to other medical treatments. Additionally, a patient may need a liver transplant if they have certain types of liver cancer or genetic liver diseases.

What disqualifies you from a liver transplant?

Ans. Several elements may disqualify a patient from receiving a liver transplant, such as active alcohol or drug abuse, certain types of cancer, severe heart or lung disease, advanced age, or other medical requirements that make surgery risky. The patient’s medical team will evaluate their overall health and determine if the risks outweigh the potential benefits of a liver transplant.

What are the advantages of a Liver Transplant?

Ans. A liver transplant’s advantages include restoring liver function, improving quality of life, and increasing survival rates. It can also prevent or cure other complications associated with liver diseases, such as portal hypertension, ascites, and encephalopathy.