✅ Criteria for Liver Transplant in India
Explained by Dr. Chetan Kalal – DM Hepatology | Liver Transplant Physician, Gleneagles Hospital Mumbai
Serving India & Global Patients (UAE | UK | USA | Africa | Canada | Middle East)
🧬 What is Liver Transplant?
A liver transplant is a life-saving surgery where a diseased liver is replaced with a healthy donor liver. It is recommended when the liver can no longer perform its essential functions despite all medical efforts.
🩺 Who Needs a Liver Transplant?
You may be considered for a liver transplant if you have:
✅ Underlying Liver Disease | ✅ Decompensation Features |
Cirrhosis (alcoholic, NASH, hepatitis B/C) | Jaundice (yellowing of eyes/skin) |
Liver cancer (within transplant criteria) | Ascites (fluid in abdomen) |
Acute liver failure (e.g., drug overdose) | Variceal bleeding (vomiting blood) |
Genetic diseases (e.g., Wilson's Disease) | Hepatic encephalopathy (confusion/drowsiness) |
Autoimmune liver diseases | Low sodium, poor kidney function, muscle loss |
🔍 Core Criteria Used for Liver Transplant Evaluation in India:
1. MELD Score (Model for End-stage Liver Disease)
- A score based on lab tests (bilirubin, INR, creatinine)
- MELD ≥ 15 usually indicates need for transplant
- Higher score = higher urgency
2. Child-Pugh Score
- Used to classify liver damage (A to C)
- Class C = highest severity
3. Liver Cancer (HCC) Within Milan/UCSF Criteria
- Tumor ≤ 5 cm, or ≤ 3 tumors each ≤ 3 cm
- No vascular invasion or metastasis
4. No Absolute Contraindications
- Active infections not controlled
- Ongoing alcohol/substance abuse
- Uncontrolled heart/lung disease
- No psychosocial support or medical non-compliance
5. Psychiatric & Nutritional Assessment
- To ensure long-term success post-transplant
👨⚕️ Dr. Chetan Kalal’s Expert Advice:
“We don’t wait till the very last moment. Early referral improves outcomes. If you have recurrent fluid buildup, bleeding, or liver cancer, you may already be a transplant candidate. Timely evaluation saves lives.”
📍 Why Choose Dr. Chetan Kalal?
- 🩺 First DM Hepatologist in Maharashtra
- 🏥 Liver Transplant Specialist, Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai
- 🌐 Serving domestic & international patients (India, Dubai, UK, Africa, US, Canada)
- 💻 Second opinions and virtual consults available
- 🔄 Expert in ABO-incompatible, acute liver failure, pediatric & adult transplants
📞 Book Your Liver Transplant Evaluation Today
Website: www.drchetankalal.com
📍 Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai
📱 +91 8506873687
🌍 Online Consults | Report Review | Second Opinion
