What is Liver Transplant Surgery?

The orthotopic liver transplant procedure involves the removal of a diseased liver and its replacement in the same anatomical position with a healthy donor liver. This restores essential liver functions, including detoxification, digestion support, nutrient metabolism, and generally rejuvenates a patient's health when other treatments have been exhausted.

There are different types of liver transplant surgery, including deceased donor transplantation and living donor transplantation, each tailored to patient and donor suitability.

A simple explanation for patients

In simple terms, when surgeons perform a liver transplant surgery, they remove the diseased liver and replace it with a new one from a donor. This new liver assists your body by filtering toxins and producing necessary substances that will keep you alive and healthy.

Why is Liver Transplant Surgery Needed?

Doctors recommend this surgery when liver failure or liver cancer progresses to an advanced stage where other treatments offer limited benefit. Without transplantation, patients may face life-threatening complications. A timely liver transplant surgery improves survival, relieves symptoms like jaundice and fatigue, and enhances overall quality of life.

Common Reasons and Key Conditions Treated

• End-stage liver disease due to cirrhosis, hepatitis, or alcohol-related damage.

• Primary liver cancers such as hepatocellular carcinoma.

• Acute liver failure from toxins or infections.

• Metabolic liver diseases affect function.

Why Choose Manipal Hospitals for Liver Transplant Surgery?

At Manipal Hospitals, you receive expert care from an experienced transplant team equipped with the latest technology and supported by personalised patient services.

• Experienced Transplant Surgeons: Skilled in all forms of liver transplantation.

• Multidisciplinary Team: Coordinated specialists in surgery, hepatology, anaesthesia, and rehabilitation.

• Advanced Facilities: NABH and JCI accreditation for superior care and safety.

• Comprehensive Follow-Up: Tailored rehabilitation and telemedicine for international patients.

• Patient-Centred Approach: Compassionate care respecting cultural needs and preferences.

Indications for Orthotopic Liver Transplant Procedure

Patients ideal for orthotopic transplantation demonstrate specific medical conditions and overall health suitable for surgery and post-operative care.

• Severe liver failure with complications unresponsive to medical therapy.

• Liver cancer within transplant criteria.

• Good functional status to endure surgery and rehab.

• Compatibility with the available donor liver.

• Strong social support for post-transplant life.

Who Should Avoid or Delay Liver Transplant Surgery?

Certain conditions require careful assessment to avoid risks or ensure optimal timing.

• Active infections or cancer outside transplant criteria.

• Severe heart, lung, or kidney disease.

• Poor adherence to medical advice or rehabilitation.

• Lack of psychosocial support.

Preparing for Liver Transplant Surgery

The preparation phase is critical, involving detailed testing and counselling to ensure readiness for surgery. Here are the principal steps to prepare:

• Complete medical and imaging evaluation.

• Matching donor and recipient blood types.

• Optimising overall health through nutrition and management of other illnesses.

• Psychological assessment and support.

• Planning for travel and accommodation for international patients.

• Arranging family or companion support during recovery.

What Happens During Liver Transplant Surgery?

The liver transplant procedure begins with general anaesthesia. Surgeons make an abdominal incision to remove the diseased liver and carefully implant the donor organ. They reconnect blood vessels and bile ducts to restore circulation and liver function. The surgery can last 6 to 12 hours, depending on complexity, followed by transfer to intensive care.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

The key surgical steps include:

• Administer anaesthesia and position the patient.

• Make a long incision to access the liver.

• Divide and remove the diseased liver.

• Prepare and implant the donor liver in the same anatomical site.

• Reconnect major blood vessels and bile duct (vascular and biliary anastomoses).

• Restore blood flow and check organ function.

• Close incision in layers and transfer to intensive care.

Recovery After Liver Transplant Surgery

Recovery involves ICU stay for monitoring, immunosuppressive therapy to prevent rejection, and gradual physical rehabilitation. Patients learn to manage medications and lifestyle changes. International patients gain seamless follow-up through telemedicine to maintain health after discharge.

Risks & Complications

Risks can include organ rejection, infections, bleeding, and bile duct complications. The expert care team at Manipal Hospitals monitors closely and intervenes promptly to reduce complications and enhance outcomes.

Benefits of Liver Transplant Surgery

The benefits of liver transplant surgery include:

• Restored liver function: Enables normal metabolism and detoxification.

• Relief of symptoms: Reduces jaundice, fatigue, and ascites.

• Improved quality of life: Allows resumption of regular activities.

• Increased life expectancy: Prolongs survival compared to medical therapy alone.

• Psychological benefits: Provides hope and renewed vitality.

Cost of Liver Transplant Surgery in Manipal Hospitals

The cost of liver transplant surgery is broadly more affordable compared to Western or Gulf nations, while maintaining world-class standards. Fees generally include surgery, hospital stay, diagnostics, medicines, and early rehabilitation. We provide personalised and transparent cost estimates after a thorough medical assessment.

International Patient Support at Manipal Hospitals

International patients receive dedicated assistance with visa processing, airport transfer, accommodation, language interpretation, dietary preferences, and insurance or TPA coordination. A patient coordinator provides constant support to ensure a smooth and supportive experience.