Liver transplant at BLK Max Hospital, New Delhi, India.

Liver transplant procedures at BLK Max Hospital in New Delhi, India, are renowned for their advanced medical care and expertise. The hospital offers state-of-the-art facilities and a highly skilled team of surgeons specializing in liver transplantation. Comprehensive care is provided, from pre-transplant evaluation to post-operative recovery, ensuring patients receive the best possible outcomes. With a focus on patient safety and well-being, BLK Max Hospital is equipped to handle complex liver transplant cases, supported by a multidisciplinary team dedicated to providing exceptional medical care.

When do you need a liver transplant?

A liver transplant becomes necessary when the liver no longer functions properly, and other treatments have failed. Liver failure can be chronic, occurring over months or years, often due to conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis B or C, fatty liver disease, or genetic disorders. Acute liver failure, a sudden onset of liver dysfunction, also requires a transplant. Key symptoms include severe jaundice, profound fatigue, mental confusion, fluid buildup in the abdomen or legs, and frequent infections. If these symptoms appear, a liver transplant might be the best option to restore health. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are essential for a successful outcome.

Why should you choose BLK Max for your liver transplant?

Expertise and Experience: BLK Max is renowned for its highly skilled team of liver transplant surgeons and specialists who have extensive experience in performing complex liver transplants.

Advanced Facilities: The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and facilities, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care throughout their treatment.

Comprehensive Care: BLK Max provides a multidisciplinary approach to liver transplant, including pre-transplant evaluation, surgery, and post-transplant follow-up, ensuring holistic patient care.

High Success Rates: The hospital boasts impressive success rates for liver transplants, reflecting its commitment to delivering excellent patient outcomes.

Patient-Centered Approach: With a focus on patient comfort and safety, BLK Max ensures personalized care plans and support throughout the transplant process.

Cost of Liver transplant in India compared to other countries –

Day 1 : Arrival and Consultation –

Upon arriving at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), the patient is transferred to their hotel for a brief rest. The hospital arranges for transportation to BLK Max Hospital, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. At the hospital, the patient visits the International Patients Lounge on the first floor, where Shikha and Milind, who serve as dedicated coordinators, assist with the process. After completing the registration and obtaining a unique Max ID, which is essential for accessing reports and managing financial transactions, the patient proceeds to the billing department. From there, they are taken to the first floor to meet with Dr. Abhideep

Liver transplant at BLK Max Hospital

Chaudhary, Dr. Sanjay Singh Negi, and Dr. Vivek Vij, renowned liver transplant specialists. The doctors perform a detailed examination, discuss the patient’s medical history, and recommend necessary tests to evaluate their condition. With the Max ID, patients can easily track their test results and manage their treatment-related expenses. The first day ends with the patient feeling confident and prepared for the next steps in their liver transplant journey.

Day 2- 6 Pre-Liver Transplant Workup for Recipient and Donor –

For the Recipient

1. Medical History and Physical Examination:
   • Comprehensive review of the patient’s medical history.
   • Physical examination to assess overall health status.
2. Laboratory Tests:
   • Blood Tests:
     • Complete blood count (CBC)
     • Blood chemistry panel (electrolytes, liver enzymes, kidney function)
     • Coagulation profile (PT/INR, PTT)
     • Blood type and crossmatch
     • Viral serologies (HIV, Hepatitis B and C, CMV, EBV)
   • Urine Tests:
     • Urinalysis
     • 24-hour urine collection to assess kidney function.
3. Imaging Studies:
   • Abdominal Ultrasound:
     • To evaluate liver size, texture, and presence of any masses or abnormalities.
   • CT Scan or MRI:
     • Detailed imaging of the liver and surrounding structures.
   • Chest X-ray:
     • To check for lung health and other potential issues.
4. Cardiopulmonary Evaluation:
   • Echocardiogram:
     • To assess heart function and structure.
   • Electrocardiogram (EKG):
     • To check for heart rhythm abnormalities.
   • Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs):
     • To evaluate lung capacity and function.
   • Stress Test:
     • To assess cardiovascular health under physical stress.
5. Infectious Disease Screening:
   • Screen for infections that could affect the transplant process.
6. Psychosocial Evaluation:
   • Assess mental and emotional health.
   • Evaluate social support systems.
7. Nutritional Assessment:
   • Determine nutritional status and needs.
8. Oncology Screening:
   • Screen for any underlying or concurrent malignancies.
9. Liver Biopsy:
   • May be performed to assess the extent of liver damage.

For the Donor

1. Medical History and Physical Examination:
   • Comprehensive review of the donor’s medical history.
   • Physical examination to assess overall health status.
2. Laboratory Tests:
   • Blood Tests:
     • Complete blood count (CBC)
     • Blood chemistry panel (electrolytes, liver enzymes, kidney function)
     • Coagulation profile (PT/INR, PTT)
     • Blood type and crossmatch
     • Viral serologies (HIV, Hepatitis B and C, CMV, EBV)
   • Urine Tests:
     • Urinalysis
     • 24-hour urine collection to assess kidney function.
3. Imaging Studies:
   • Abdominal Ultrasound:
     • To evaluate liver size, texture, and presence of any masses or abnormalities.
   • CT Scan or MRI:
     • Detailed imaging of the liver and surrounding structures.
   • MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography):
     • To visualize bile ducts.
4. Cardiopulmonary Evaluation:
   • Echocardiogram:
     • To assess heart function and structure.
   • Electrocardiogram (EKG):
     • To check for heart rhythm abnormalities.
   • Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs):
     • To evaluate lung capacity and function.
5. Infectious Disease Screening:
   • Screen for infections that could affect the transplant process.
6. Psychosocial Evaluation:
   • Assess mental and emotional health.
   • Evaluate social support systems.
7. Nutritional Assessment:
   • Determine nutritional status and needs.
8. Oncology Screening:
   • Screen for any underlying or concurrent malignancies.

Day 7: Document Verification for Liver Transplant

On Day 7, the focus is on verifying the essential documents for the liver transplant procedure. This step ensures that all medical, legal, and financial requirements are met for a smooth and compliant transplant process. The hospital’s team meticulously reviews each document to validate the eligibility and preparedness of the patient and donor.

Required Documents for International Patients:

• Detailed Medical Records: Comprehensive medical history and diagnosis reports.
• Doctor’s Referral Letter: Indicating the necessity for a transplant.
• Blood Group Report: Blood typing results for both donor and recipient.
• Passports: Copies of passports for donor and recipient.
• Photographs: Recent passport-sized photos of both donor and recipient.
• Proof of Relationship: Documents proving the relationship between donor and recipient.
• Medical Visa: Valid medical visas for both parties.
• Consent Forms: Notarized consent forms from both donor and recipient.
• Ethics Committee Approval: Clearance from the hospital’s ethics committee.

Day 8: Report Review and Medical Meeting

On Day 8, the focus shifts to a thorough review of the pre-transplant medical reports. The patient and donor meet with the transplant team, including their respective doctors, to discuss the results of the tests conducted over the previous days. The liver transplant team at BLK Max includes Dr. Abhideep Chaudhary, Dr. Sanjay Singh Negi, and Dr. Vivek Vij.

Morning:

• Review of Medical Reports: Detailed analysis of all test results by the transplant team.
• Patient and Donor Meeting: Discussion of test results, surgical plans, and post-operative care.

Afternoon:

• Medical Meeting: Formal meeting to finalize transplant details if both donor and recipient are deemed fit for surgery.
• Addressing Concerns: If issues are found, doctors prescribe necessary treatments to optimize health before surgery.

Evening:

• Monitoring: Continuous monitoring and follow-up tests to ensure readiness for the transplant.

Day 11: Legal Meeting

On Day 11, the patient and donor attend a crucial legal meeting to finalize the legalities of the liver transplant. This meeting is essential to ensure all legal requirements and regulations are thoroughly met and documented.

Morning:

• Review of Documentation: Verification of consent forms, identification proofs, and medical reports.
• Legal Briefing: Explanation of rights, responsibilities, and confirmation of the voluntary nature of the donation.

Afternoon:

• Final Legal Consent: Obtaining final consent from all parties, ensuring compliance with ethical standards and legal frameworks.

Day 12-15: Liver Transplant Procedure

On Day 12, the transplant date is confirmed, and both the recipient and donor are provided with detailed instructions regarding the procedure.

Day 12: Preoperative Preparation

• Dietary and Medication Instructions: Detailed guidelines on dietary restrictions and medications to avoid.
• Admission: Both donor and recipient are admitted to the hospital for final assessments and preparation.

Day 13: Transplant Day

Morning:

• Transfer to Operating Theater: Both donor and recipient are taken to the operating room.
• Surgery Commences: The donor’s liver portion is surgically removed and transplanted into the recipient.

Afternoon:

• Surgical Procedure: The complex surgery is performed by the transplant team, including surgeons, anesthetists, and nurses.

Evening:

• Post-Surgery Monitoring: Both donor and recipient are moved to the ICU for close monitoring.
• Initial Recovery: Continuous observation to ensure proper liver function and address potential complications.

Day 15-22: Post-Transplant Recovery and Monitoring

Following the transplant, both the recipient and the donor are closely monitored for complications and recovery progress.

Daily Routine:

• ICU Stay: Continuous monitoring in the ICU for any signs of complications or rejection.
• Medication Administration: Introduction of immunosuppressants and other necessary medications.
• Physical Therapy: Initial steps in physical therapy to aid recovery.
• Nutritional Support: Adherence to a specialized diet to support liver health.

Week 3-4: Hospital Discharge Preparation

Daily Routine:

• Education: Educating the patient and family on post-discharge care, including medication management and lifestyle changes.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Scheduling follow-up appointments for ongoing monitoring.

Discharge Day:

• Final Assessments: Final health assessments and clearance for discharge.
• Transportation Home: Arrangements for transportation back to the hotel or home.

Ongoing Follow-Up

Monthly Check-Ups:

• Regular Monitoring: Ongoing check-ups to monitor liver function and overall health.
• Long-Term Care: Continued support and care from the transplant team to ensure a successful long-term outcome.

Side Effects of Liver Transplant for Donor:

1. Surgical Risks: Donors may experience complications such as bleeding, infection, blood clots, and bile leakage.
2. Pain and Discomfort: Post-surgery, donors often have pain and discomfort around the incision site and abdomen.
3. Recovery Time: Full recovery can take several weeks to months, during which donors might experience fatigue and reduced physical function.
4. Psychological Impact: Donors might feel anxiety or depression related to their recovery and the outcome of the transplant.

Side Effects of Liver Transplant for Recipient:

1. Rejection: The recipient’s immune system might attack the new liver, requiring immunosuppressive medications to prevent rejection.
2. Infections: Immunosuppressive drugs can increase the risk of infections.
3. Medication Side Effects: Long-term use of immunosuppressants can lead to side effects such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney damage, and increased cancer risk.
4. Complications: Recipients might experience bile duct complications, bleeding, blood clots, and other surgical risks.

Do’s and Don’ts for Liver Transplant Donor

Do’s:

1. Follow Pre-Surgery Instructions: Adhere to dietary restrictions and pre-surgical preparation as advised by your healthcare team.
2. Stay Healthy: Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen leading up to the surgery.
3. Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups post-surgery to monitor recovery.
4. Take Prescribed Medications: Follow the medication regimen to aid in healing and prevent infections.

Don’ts:

1. Ignore Symptoms: Report any unusual symptoms or complications to your doctor immediately.
2. Engage in Strenuous Activities: Avoid heavy lifting and intense physical activity during the recovery period.
3. Neglect Your Mental Health: Seek support if experiencing anxiety or depression related to the surgery.
4. Skip Follow-Up Care: Ensure all scheduled follow-up appointments are attended.

Do’s and Don’ts for Liver Transplant Recipient

Do’s:

1. Take Immunosuppressive Medications: Follow the prescribed regimen to prevent organ rejection.
2. Attend Regular Check-Ups: Frequent monitoring by your transplant team to ensure the liver is functioning properly.
3. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Follow a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid alcohol.
4. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about signs of rejection and infection to manage your health proactively.

Don’ts:

1. Miss Medication Doses: Skipping immunosuppressive drugs can lead to rejection.
2. Ignore Signs of Complications: Immediate medical attention is needed for symptoms like jaundice, fever, or pain.
3. Expose Yourself to Infections: Avoid crowded places and sick individuals to reduce infection risk.
4. Neglect Your Diet: Adhere to dietary guidelines provided by your healthcare team to support liver health.

Will Insurance cover your liver transplant in India?

Whether a liver transplant will be covered by insurance in India depends on the specific policy and insurance provider. Many health insurance companies in India offer policies that include coverage for liver transplants, but the extent of the coverage can vary significantly. Typically, comprehensive health insurance plans will cover the costs associated with the surgery, including pre-transplant evaluation, hospitalization, surgery, post-operative care, and medications. However, it’s crucial for patients to thoroughly review their policy details and discuss with their insurance provider to understand the coverage, any exclusions, waiting periods, and required documentation. Some policies may require additional riders or premium payments to cover organ transplant procedures fully.

Top 5 Insurance Companies in India Offering Liver Transplant Coverage:

1. ICICI Lombard General Insurance
2. Max Bupa Health Insurance
3. Star Health and Allied Insurance
4. HDFC ERGO General Insurance
5. Apollo Munich Health Insurance (now HDFC ERGO Health)

Success Rate of Liver Transplant in India –

The success rate of liver transplants in India is impressively high, standing at approximately 89%. This success can be attributed to several factors, including advancements in surgical techniques, better post-operative care, and the availability of experienced medical professionals. Major hospitals in India, such as BLK Max Super Speciality Hospital, Apollo Hospitals, and Fortis Healthcare, are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and multidisciplinary teams specializing in liver transplants. Furthermore, the cost of liver transplantation in India is relatively affordable compared to Western countries, making it a viable option for many patients. The high success rate not only reflects the quality of medical care but also underscores the country’s growing reputation as a hub for medical tourism. With continuous improvements in medical technology and patient care protocols, the success rates are expected to remain high, offering hope to patients in need of liver transplants.

Patient Reviews –

Rakesh Sharma: “I underwent a liver transplant at BLK-Max Hospital and my experience was outstanding. Dr. Abhideep Chaudhary and his team were extremely professional and caring. The facilities were top-notch, and the post-operative care was exceptional. I am grateful for the new lease on life.”

Meenakshi Gupta: “My husband received a liver transplant at BLK-Max, and we couldn’t have asked for better care. The hospital staff was supportive throughout the process, and the doctors were always available to answer our queries. Dr. Manav Wadhawan’s expertise and the comprehensive care provided by the team made a huge difference in my husband’s recovery.”

Suresh Kumar: “After being diagnosed with liver failure, I chose BLK-Max for my liver transplant. The hospital’s state-of-the-art facilities and the highly experienced medical team led by Dr. Abhideep Chaudhary made the entire process seamless. The post-surgery follow-up and care ensured my smooth recovery. Highly recommend BLK-Max for liver transplant procedures.”