Liver Transplant Unit in Thane

Liver transplant surgery involves the complete removal of the patient's liver, which is then replaced with a new liver from a donor. The donor liver can come from a deceased individual, where typically the entire liver is transplanted. More commonly, it comes from a family member who donates a portion of their liver.

Despite our body having only one liver, it can be safely divided into two parts, allowing one part to be used for transplantation while the remaining part of the liver remains sufficient for the donor. Both portions can regenerate quickly to their original size, although the shape may change. Liver transplant is typically reserved for individuals whose liver disease has reached a critical stage, often after exhausting other treatment options or in cases where liver cancer has developed concurrently.

Indications for Liver Transplants

The need for a liver transplant can arise suddenly, as in the case of acute liver failure, or gradually over an extended period, resulting in chronic liver failure. Various factors can contribute to liver failure, including chronic viral infections like:

• hepatitis B and C
• liver tumours
• alcohol abuse
• fatty liver disease
• bile duct issues like primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and biliary duct atresia

Fortunately, effective vaccines exist for hepatitis B, and hepatitis C can be treated with medications. For individuals with primary liver cancer that develops in chronically diseased livers, early detection through screening can make liver transplant a curative option.