Liver transplant in India

What it is

A liver transplant replaces a failed liver with a healthy liver, or part of a liver, from a donor. A living donor gives part of their liver. The liver of the donor grows back over time.

Who it is for

A liver specialist decides if a transplant is right for you. The hospital in India does its own tests before it agrees.

The donor

• Indian law controls organ donation.
• A committee must approve each transplant from a living donor.
• The donor needs documents that prove the relationship. The hospital tells you which ones.
• Paying a donor is a crime in India. Never agree to pay a donor or a broker.

What to expect

1. The hospital reviews your reports.
2. You and the donor travel and have more tests.
3. The committee approves the transplant.
4. Both of you have surgery and stay in hospital.
5. The patient stays near the hospital for checks after discharge.

Liver transplant is major surgery. Ask the hospital how long both of you must stay in India.

After the transplant

You take medicines every day for life. You need regular blood tests. Plan your follow-up doctor in Kenya before you travel.

Risks

The risks are serious for the patient and real for the donor. Ask the hospital to explain them in writing.

Questions to ask the hospital

• Is the donor a suitable match? Which tests show this?
• How long must the patient and the donor stay in India?
• What does the quote include, and what do complications cost?
• Which medicines do I need at home, and what do they cost each month?