A mini-guide on the procedure of liver transplant in Delhi
A liver transplant is a procedure that is recommended as a last resort when other treatments show no progress or results. Through this procedure, a healthy liver replaces a damaged or diseased liver. The donor can either be related by blood or a perfect match in the case of an outsider. In India, the liver transplant can cost anywhere between USD 50,000 – USD 60,000, depending on the hospital and the additional services you opt for. Let us understand what you can expect with this procedure and how to prepare for it.
How to prepare for the transplant when you have a donor liver?
Your doctor will give you a call to let you know that a donor liver is available. He/she will also meet you and decide when you need to go in for surgery. The duration of the liver transplant in Delhi varies based on the complexity of the case. However, on average, it can last anywhere between 6-12 hours. The day you come for your surgical procedure, you need to ensure
You are nil by mouth (NBM) for a certain number of hours (NBM means that you do not drink or eat anything for a certain time frame)
You would also need to get all your paperwork (like latest and old reports, your medical history file, etc.) as well as your prescription medicines.
Pack a bag with all your necessary items like an extra change of clothes, charger, mobile, etc.
If you have someone coming along with you, make sure they also pack their things if need be
What happens during the surgery?
• During the surgery, the specialist will first make an incision in your abdomen.
• Then the blood vessels that are near the diseased liver are cut.
• The healthy liver is then placed, and the blood vessels and bile ducts are reattached.
• Once the surgeon ensures that everything is proper, he/she then closes the incision.
Potential risks of liver transplantation
Generally, there are no potential risks or problems post the surgery. However, one can never say when things can go wrong.
You would need to watch out for signs like
• Bleeding or infections
• Biliary complications
• The body may reject the liver, or the new liver may not function to its full potential.
The doctor will keep a watchful eye to ensure that things do not go from bad to worse. If a patient does develop such risks, it can result in-
• Longer stay at the hospital
• Extended or slow recovery time
• In worst case situations, it can also be fatal and result in the patient's death
Conclusion
A liver transplant is a surgery that gives a patient another chance to live a healthy life. Once the surgery is a success, the patient would have to follow the doctor's advice. Moreover, the caregiver would need to make sure that all the precautions and preventive measures are followed. The doctor will also schedule the follow-up to monitor the healing process of the incision. In case of any problems or discomforts, make sure that your doctor is aware of it.